Chapter 1: The Missing Hero
Chapter Text
“He should still be alive. Haschwalth… we are taking him with us.” Yhwach said calmly as he pulled the blade from Ichigo's throat.
“Yes, Your Majesty.” Haschwalth muttered, bowing his head, though he was uncertain.
This whole battle had gone about as well as his king predicted, but still, it didn’t make Haschwalth feel any better about this whole situation. If it was his choice, he would just kill the boy and move on, but he understood why his king was against spilling his own blood, as tarnished as it was. Haschwalth moved to his king’s side and knelt down to look at the young man. His eyes were open, but unseeing. He was slightly impressed that the young man was alive after such a blow.
“Be gentle with him. He is fragile.” Yhwach stated as his reishi sword disappeared.
Haschwalth just nodded as he wrapped one arm around Ichigo's shoulders and the other under his legs. As he stood up, he paused.
“He is very light.” Haschwalth said, sounding a bit startled.
“I am not surprised. He will heal under our care. Let us go. We have much left to do.” Yhwach said.
“Your Majesty, what about… that?” Haschwalth said, looking at Ichigo’s blade.
Yhwach eyed it with disgust.
“Destroy it and leave it behind. He will no longer need such a useless, monstrous blade.” Yhwach replied.
Haschwalth nodded. Adjusting Ichigo slightly, he paused. Staring wide eyed, he almost gasped.
“Your Majesty… he has the Blut Vene.” Haschwalth whispered.
Yhwach paused and turned, leaning over to see the faint blue lines hidden under Ichigo’s collar. Yhwach nodded.
“Not a shock. Ichigo is a survivor, he clings to life with both hands. And I am sure his fight with Quilge brought his Quincy powers to the surface. It will need to be something we keep a close eye on.” Yhwach explained.
As they were about to walk away, they both paused as the Schatten Bereich suddenly activated. Yhwach’s brow furrowed.
“Impossible! Unless… yes. Aizen Sosuke must have done this. He must have thrown off my senses.” Yhwach muttered.
Haschwalth frowned deeply as Yhwach turned to him.
“You knew, but said nothing Haschwalth?” Yhwach demanded.
Haschwalth closed his eyes.
“I knew I couldn’t stop you.” he replied.
Yhwach paused and then nodded as the doorway opened.
“Very well. This is probably the best time anyway. Let us return and start on Ichigo’s re-education.” Yhwach stated.
“Yes, Your Majesty.” Haschwalth said, following him inside, but not before he stepped on and crushed Zangetsu under his heel.
Faintly, he heard a cry of agony, but ignored it. As the door shut behind them, Kurosaki Ichigo’s future was sealed.
—sSs—
Ichigo woke up with a start. Heart pounding, pulse racing, he immediately sat up. His vision swam and his stomach rolled violently, but Ichigo didn’t dare let that stop him. Forcing himself to get up, he stumbled into a wall and leaned there for a moment. As his eyes finally cleared up, he found himself in an all white room.
“Where?” Ichigo whispered, looking around in confusion and fear.
Looking down, he saw he was still in his ruined bankai uniform. His wounds hadn’t been healed, which meant…
“Fuck.” he whispered.
Had he been captured? By that man! Ichigo slapped himself in the forehead with a groan. Getaboshi and Yoruichi were never going to let him live this down! But wait… Ichigo frowned.
“Why didn’t he kill me?” Ichigo muttered.
“Because I don’t kill my own kin.” Ichigo jumped as the door across from him opened, revealing the very man he had been worried about.
“Yhwach!” Ichigo hissed angrily.
“Ah, I see your temper still runs hot. That is good. Hopefully it will keep you warm.” Yhwach said as he walked in, the door closing behind him, disappearing into the wall seamlessly.
Ichigo swallowed as he pushed off the wall and stood before him. His body was sore and shivering, he barely had the energy to stand, but he would die on his feet like a man. That was the least he could do.
“Why am I here?” Ichigo demanded.
Yhwach tilted his head to the side, thoughtfully, but to Ichigo, it just felt like he was being looked down upon. Ichigo clenched his fists tightly.
“To rest, to heal and to find your proper place in this miserable world.” Yhwach replied.
Ichigo stared at him, confused.
“Are you nuts? Why would you heal me?” Ichigo asked.
“I see… so you know nothing about your true heritage.” Yhwach replied without answering.
“My heritage? What does that have to do with anything! If you are going to kill me, just do it! Don’t talk nonsense!” Ichigo snapped.
Yhwach took a step forward and Ichigo reached over his shoulder for Zangetsu, but… his hand met empty air. Ichigo’s head snapped around, but there was no blade strapped to his back or his side. For the first time, Ichigo realized… he was weaponless. Ichigo’s eyes darted around, but Zangetsu was nowhere to be seen.
“Looking for something?” Ichigo’s eyes snapped back to Yhwach to realize in his panic looking for Zangetsu that the man had gotten way too close for comfort.
It took everything in Ichigo not to back up. He tensed his body, refusing to back down or look weak.
“Where is Zangetsu?” Ichigo demanded.
“Left behind. You no longer need that cursed blade.” Yhwach stated, waving his hand dismissively.
Ichigo’s eyes widened. Did this mean… Ichigo shoved that panic down. He had to keep his head. Panicking would do him no good.
“I am sure you are very confused and I don’t blame you, but this is a chance for you to start anew. To finally join your true family and be on the right side of history… to follow in your mother’s footsteps.” Yhwach said.
Ichigo stared at him, unable to wrap his mind around what Yhwach had just said.
“My… mother? What does she have to do with this?” Ichigo asked.
Yhwach seemed puzzled for a moment before it dawned on him.
“Ah, I see. So no one has told you then. How sad.” Yhwach stated.
“Told me what? What the fuck are you going on about!” Ichigo yelled, taking a step forward.
A hand grabbed him by the throat and slammed him against the wall. Ichigo choked, his hands coming up to claw at Yhwach’s, trying to get free when a finger was placed before his face. Ichigo went crossed eyed staring at it.
“You are not to yell, Ichigo. I do not care for such tones when being spoken to. Understand?” Yhwach demanded, his voice firm.
“Go… to… hell!” Ichigo spat.
Yhwach sighed deeply and pulled Ichigo away from the wall, just to slam him into it again. Ichigo’s head and back hit the wall with force, causing Ichigo to cry out and close his eyes in pain.
“If you continue to be disrespectful, I will have no choice but to discipline you, do you understand?” Yhwach demanded.
Ichigo forced one eye open and glared at him.
“Bite me.” he hissed.
Yhwach pulled his hand back again and before Ichigo knew it, he went flying. Thrown clear across the room, Ichigo hit the ground and slid until he hit another wall. Ichigo choked and tasted blood in his mouth, which he spat out. He forced his hands under him before his trembling arms pushed him up. A shadow fell over him and Ichigo glanced upwards to see Yhwach standing over him.
“This causes me no joy, you know. No delight. Hurting you hurts me just as much as it does you, Ichigo.” Yhwach stated calmly.
Ichigo just glared at him, his arms shaking as he tried to get up more, but couldn’t make it any farther.
“To get back to our earlier discussion, I suppose it falls on me to tell you the truth about your mother, Masaki.” Yhwach said.
He knelt down until they were eye to eye.
“She was a Quincy. A pure blooded Quincy, something very rare and very precious.” Yhwach explained.
Ichigo’s eyes widened and he slowly started to shake his head.
“That’s not possible. There’s no way!” Ichigo insisted.
“Oh? And why do you say that?” Yhwach asked.
Ichigo gritted his teeth.
“Because Mom had no powers! She couldn’t see spirits like I could! She-She just couldn’t be!” Ichigo snapped.
“And what makes you think that?” Yhwach asked, curiously.
“Because if she did have powers, then why did she die! Why didn’t she-” Ichigo cut himself off, feeling his own emotions overwhelm him.
He couldn't even wrap his head around the idea his mother might have been a Quincy! He couldn't believe it! Because, then, why…?
“Because I took her power that day.” Yhwach said.
Ichigo stared at him, looking into those dark eyes.
“What…” Ichigo whispered.
“On that day, when you were attacked by the hollow called Grande Fisher, I had started my return to life. So, I took back what I had given so long ago. It was a truly sad, unfortunate series of events that caused your mother to lose her life.” Yhwach stood up, leaving Ichigo on the floor, staring blankly at the ground.
“But where she left off, I will take over. You will learn to be a proper Quincy, Kurosaki Ichigo. This I promise you.” Yhwach declared.
“You bastard… YOU FUCKING BASTARD!” Ichigo shot to his feet, throwing a punch.
He had no zanpakuto, no energy and deep wounds that had just barely started to heal, but that didn’t matter. Not to Ichigo. Because if it was true, then his mother, his family! They had all suffered because of this man’s callousness! Yhwach watched him before grabbing his fist. With his other hand, he slammed the palm into Ichigo’s humerus, breaking it. Ichigo choked and then screamed as the pain raced up his arm. Yhwach took the chance to twist it, forcing Ichigo down to one knee, his other hand coming up to desperately claw at Yhwach’s, trying to get him to release his now broken arm.
“I truly cannot stand the sound of your agony, my son, but as I said before. I will accept no disrespect from you. Even if I have to train you the hard way.” Yhwach spoke over Ichigo’s anguished cries.
Ichigo’s head tilted back and he glared at Yhwach.
“I’LL KILL YOU! I’LL KILL YOU FOR TAKING HER AWAY! FOR ALL YOU’VE DONE!” Ichigo screamed, tears in his eyes.
Yhwach listened to him yell before releasing Ichigo’s hand. The arm fell to Ichigo’s side and Ichigo clenched it tightly, gritting his teeth against the white hot agony.
“If that is what you wish, then go ahead, Kurosaki Ichigo. But let me make this clear.” Yhwach reached over and grabbed his chin, forcing their eyes to meet.
“You may try. You may even get close once, but in the end, I will succeed and you will fall in line. Because I can see into the future and I can already see you standing by my side, my ever loyal son, as I descend to the throne and start the new world order.” Yhwach stated.
“I would rather die first.” Ichigo hissed.
Yhwach released him and turned away.
“I think that is enough for now. Rest. For you will need it.” Yhwach said as he stepped before the wall where the door was.
“Hey!” Ichigo struggled to his feet, trying to gather the energy and speed he needed.
Yhwach stepped outside and Ichigo shot forward, but the door closed soundlessly and Ichigo ended up slamming into it. He cried out as he slid to the floor. Pressed against it, he weakly pounded his fist.
“Yhwach! Yhwach, get back here, you asshole!” Ichigo yelled.
In the hall beyond the door, Yhwach paused, listening to Ichigo yell before he sighed and shook his head before looking at Haschwalth.
“It seems we have quite a road ahead of us with that one.” Yhwach said with a sad chuckle.
“So it seems, Your Majesty.” Haschwalth agreed.
“Keep an eye on him, won’t you, Haschwalth? There is much to do and I will need to concentrate.” Yhwach said as they started walking.
“Of course.” Haschwalth bowed his head.
—sSs—
Ichigo ended up using the torn pieces at the bottom of his jacket to secure his arm. Leaning against the wall, he looked around. He didn’t see any cameras, but that didn’t mean they weren’t there. The wall where the door was showed absolutely no signs a door even existed there. Ichigo had scanned every inch of that area and nothing. He sighed and tilted his head back to stare at the ceiling.
“You’ve really done it this time, Kurosaki.” he mumbled.
Ichigo looked at his arm and winced. What was he going to do? He was weak, he was injured and he was weaponless. Yhwach had already proven himself to be a man willing to do anything, even kill, so Ichigo was in deep shit. And yet…
“Do I believe him? Was Mom…?” Ichigo closed his eyes and thought about the woman he had missed for so long.
His Mom, kind, warm, wonderful… a Quincy? Could he believe that? Could he sit here and imagine…? Then again, his father had been a shinigami, a Captain no less! And he had never been told. Hell, Toshiro and Rangiku hadn’t even warned him and he had been their former captain! So was it that far-fetched? Ichigo shifted slightly and sighed. He was tired, really tired and he doubted the man would be back anytime soon. Shifting over to a corner, he curled up, leaving his broken arm by his side as he rested his forehead on his knees and closed his eyes. He was asleep before he knew it.
—sSs—
“Looks like he’s out cold.” Bazz-B said, watching the monitors before him.
Did he particularly like being on guard duty? No, but he had wanted to see this kid that everyone had been talking about. All he had seen was some poor schmuck getting smacked around by His Majesty. He did have to admit, he had some balls on him for talking back as he did. Didn’t help him much, but Bazz-B could give him some points in his own mind.
“I am assuming it is to heal.” Haschwalth stated, standing next to him.
“I can imagine with those wounds. His Majesty wasn’t too kind to him.” Bazz-B said.
“He will learn in time to respect His Majesty and not talk back. His wounds are because of his own stubbornness.” Haschwalth replied.
Bazz-B had a feeling that would be a long, hard lesson for the kid to learn.
—sSs—
“Ichigo’s… gone?” Shinji whispered.
No one would meet his eyes. Not a single person in the room. Shinji leaned against a wall, just trying to keep his feet under him.
“He was last seen fighting Yhwach, but Ichigo was already very badly injured. He was no match and Yhwach’s right hand, Haschwalth, was seen carrying him into their portal.” Akon finally whispered.
Shinji stared blankly around the room before his eyes landed on Ichigo’s zanpakuto. His broken zanpakuto. Zangetsu, the mighty blade, was left in pieces. Shinji could only imagine what his wielder looked like. Shinji wanted to be sick at the thought.
“What are we going to do?” Shinji demanded.
Again, silence. He looked around, but when no one spoke up, he scowled.
“We can’t just leave him. He’ll be slaughtered.” Shinji said.
“And how do you expect us to save him? If we go there, we will be slaughtered!” Soi Fong snapped.
“Captain Hirako.” Shinji turned to Ukitake, who’s mournful eyes locked with his.
“There is a very good chance Ichigo might already be-” Ukitake was cut off.
“Don’t you dare say that.” Shinji stated coldly.
“It very well might be the truth.” Sajin said softly.
“Except if he was going to kill Ichigo, why not just do it here! Why not leave his body for us to find? To send a clear message?” Shinji demanded.
Everyone looked around, but no one had any answers.
“Perhaps he was taken for information. We do not know what Yhwach is planning, but if he took Ichigo alive… it’s for a reason.” Rose said softly.
“Or perhaps it was to break our spirit. It’s pretty common information that Ichigo is very popular around here.” Sajin stated, arms crossed.
“The truth is, we don’t know until Yhwach decides to reveal it to us and by then… it will be fair too late.” Soi Fong said coldly.
“And we cannot afford to go and save him. Not now. Not with so many injured and dead. We don’t have nearly the manpower for it.” Shunsui sighed.
Despite how much Shinji didn’t want to think about it, they were right. As much as it gutted him, they truly couldn’t do anything to save the young hero. Shinji scowled and looked at Unohana.
“What about Rukia and Renji? Have they been informed?” Shinji asked.
She shook her head.
“I have told no one.” Unohana replied.
Shinji sighed and ran a hand through his hair.
“I guess it falls on me.”
—sSs—
“What… do you mean he’s gone?” Rukia’s voice was little more than a whisper.
She stared at him, her only visible eye wide with shock and terror. In the other bed, Renji was gritting his teeth, his face flushed with rage.
“Yhwach took him. We don’t know why… but Zangetsu was left behind… broken.” Shinji explained.
Rukia swallowed hard.
“W-We have to save him right? We have to!” Rukia said, desperately.
“That’s right! Ichigo needs us!” Renji demanded.
Shinji closed his eyes.
“Where’s Urahara? He has to have a plan, right?” Renji asked loudly.
“That’s right, we just need to-” Rukia was cut off.
“Stop.” Shinji cut her off.
Renji and Rukia fell silent.
“I hate to say this, but there is no plan to save him. Because truly? We don’t know if there is anything left to save.” Shinji said.
Rukia whimpered as her eyes became wet with tears.
“Don’t say that. Don’t you DARE say that!” Renji yelled.
“Let me make this clear: Yhwach took Ichigo, yeah, but there’s no guarantee Ichigo is alive. In fact, it would be stupid of Yhwach to keep him alive. It’s more likely he is going to return… and bring Ichigo’s body with him as a show of his brutality and strength.” Shinji’s voice shook as Rukia started to cry.
Just the idea, just the thought that Ichigo was… that he could be… Shinji held back the tears that threatened to come. He had to be strong. If Ichigo was gone, he prayed that his death had been short and painless. He prayed that Yhwach had shown more kindness to Ichigo than he had shown to the Captain Commander. Rukia’s sobbing hurt, but Shinji would be strong. For Ichigo.
Chapter 2: Silence
Summary:
Ichigo knows he needs to escape. Yhwach is clearly ready and willing to beat lessons into Ichigo as he sees fit. The problem is: where is Zangetsu? And why is his inner world so quiet?
Chapter Text
When the door opened some time later, Ichigo snapped awake. He tilted his head up to see through his bangs who had come in. Yhwach stood there, a tray in his hand. Ichigo glared, but stayed where he was. Not like there was any place for him to go after all. Yhwach approached him and Ichigo’s body stiffened. Maybe sleeping in a corner had been a bad idea, but it was too late for him to think about that now. Yhwach stopped a few steps from him.
“Come now, Ichigo. There is no reason to be nervous. I come bearing gifts.” Yhwach held up the tray as if that should make Ichigo feel better.
It just made Ichigo feel more like a dangerous animal at a zoo. Ichigo just continued to glare at him from under his bangs. Yhwach sighed before he knelt down. The tray contained a few rolls of bandages, a splint, ointment, some soup and even a bit of bread with a cup of water. Ichigo’s stomach growled loudly, but Ichigo didn’t move.
“I cannot help you if you do not let me, Ichigo. As I said before, I have no interest in you being injured, but if you continue to be stubborn, then you will continue to suffer.” Yhwach stated, like a father talking to an insolent child.
“I don’t want your help.” Ichigo hissed.
“Hm.” Yhwach said, though he didn’t seem convinced about it.
Ichigo tensed as the tray was placed on the ground before it was pushed his way. It hit the top of Ichigo’s foot before Yhwach stopped.
“You will find that if you do not accept help, you will be left to suffer.” Yhwach stated.
Ichigo thought about kicking the tray away just to show Yhwach what Ichigo thought of his “gifts”, but when he looked at Yhwach again, the man seemed to know exactly what he was planning.
“And should you waste these gifts I am bringing you, I promise you, your next punishment will be more severe than your last.” Yhwach threatened.
Ichigo glared at him again.
“What is the point in keeping me alive?” Ichigo demanded.
“You should listen to your elders when they are talking, Ichigo. I already explained this.” Yhwach said.
“You expect me to believe anything you say?” Ichigo asked, incredulous.
“You believed the shinigami without a second thought.” Yhwach replied, eyebrow raised.
“And look where it got me! So clearly I don’t have the best track record with trusting people and their words!” Ichigo hissed.
Yhwach shifted slightly and Ichigo flinched back, his head hitting the wall as his body moved to protect itself. Yhwach paused, head tilting to the side, his face sorrowful.
“I do not wish for you to be scared of me. After all, I am a part of you. I have seen what you have been through, what you have suffered and what they have done to destroy you. You may believe my methods to be extreme, but I hope, in due time, you will understand that it is for your own good.” Yhwach stated.
“A lot of people love to tell me that and then fuck me over.” Ichigo replied coldly.
Yhwach sighed and stood up.
“One day, you will see that I am not like them.” Yhwach turned and walked away.
“That’s what everyone says too.” Ichigo commented as Yhwach left, the door closing behind him.
Ichigo eyed the door and then the tray. His brain told him to ignore it, maybe put it aside, who knew what was in it but his body needed nourishment and nourishment meant healing. Maybe just enough for him to get out of here. With a shaking hand, Ichigo grabbed the bowl and downed it before stuffing the bread into his mouth and chugging the water. With that done, he moved on to the bandages, splint and ointment.
It hurt to take off his jacket to get to his biggest wounds, but after it was done, he was left panting. The corner of his eyes were black, but he kept going. He started with his arm, hoping his healing would kick in soon. He then cleaned his wounds the best he could, covered them in ointment and wrapped them. It was incredibly difficult to do with one hand, but he managed it. The roll didn’t even cover all his wounds, but it covered enough. When he was done, he was exhausted.
Putting his jacket back on to protect himself against the cold, he placed his uninjured arm under his head as he closed his eyes, hoping for a bit more sleep. He curled up as tight as he could and hoped, maybe when he woke up next, he would be someplace safe.
—sSs—
“Kurosaki-kun. Kurosaki-kun!” Orihime sobbed into her hands as Chad rubbed her back gently, but his face was stormy.
Urahara wished he could provide some comfort, but he had no words to help them or make them feel better. Kurosaki Ichigo being taken was the last thing he expected, but it was clear Yhwach was making a point. He had killed the Captain Commander and taken the next person who would have fought against him and possibly won. Urahara hated to admit it, but the plan was almost perfect.
“What do we do?” Chad’s voice was soft, but determined when he finally spoke and Urahara mentally sighed.
“For now, we can do nothing. We do not have the manpower to try and take Kurosaki-san back by force, even if we knew where he was being kept.” Urahara explained.
Urahara had been searching for their whereabouts since they had launched their attack, but so far, he had nothing. Chad’s eyes widened as Orihime sniffled a bit and lowered her hands.
“Are… are you saying we aren’t going after him?” Orihime demanded.
Urahara just nodded.
“But!” she tried, but Urahara held up a hand.
“Please, you must understand that there is more to this than just going after him. We would be walking straight into enemy territory with no idea what kind of security they have. It would be asking for disaster. So I am asking for patience while I figure this out.” he stated.
The two teenagers looked at each other, uncertain.
“But, Kurosaki-kun did that for me! He went to Hueco Mundo to save me!” Orihime said.
“Yes, he did, but this? This is completely different. I’m sorry, but I am going to ask you both to wait until we know more.” Urahara said.
The two of them tried to argue, but Urahara countered everything they had with simple logic. In the end, they agreed even if it was reluctant.
“Thank you. Now why don’t you two go rest?” Urahara directed them out the door before he sighed.
Yoruichi was staring at him, her eyes dark. She had been silent the whole time, watching him.
“Are you not going to…?” she asked.
Urahara frowned deeply and sat down.
“I fear I don’t have the spine for it. I can’t even imagine it myself, but…” Urahara paused, his face falling.
Yoruichi looked away, even she couldn't pretend she wasn't affected. It killed both of them to know that…
There might not even be a Kurosaki Ichigo left to save.
—sSs—
The next time Ichigo woke up, he felt better, but not 100% still. His arm was healing finally and as long as he didn’t fuck it up more, should be fine soon. But Ichigo also knew he’d wasted enough time. He needed to get out of here! Sitting up, he closed his eyes, searching for Zangetsu in all the mess that was his mind. He was surprised to find them missing.
“Old Man? Hollow? Tensa? Anyone? Are you there!” Ichigo called.
He vaguely heard something muffled in the back of his mind, but it was impossible to hear them or what they were saying. He pressed harder, trying to connect to that part of himself, but there was some kind of barrier up that Ichigo couldn’t break through, no matter how hard he pushed.
“Come on, someone answer me!” Ichigo hissed as his forehead beaded with sweat.
“Ichigo.” The sound of Old Man’s voice was like a wave of relief, but it was short lived amiss all the confusion.
“Old Man, finally! I could use some help here.” he muttered.
There was silence for a while and then a deep sigh.
“I’m sorry, but we cannot help you.” Old Man said.
Ichigo was absolutely baffled.
“But! Old Man, I need you!” Ichigo begged.
“I’m sorry, but I cannot. And I cannot let them help you either.” Old Man replied.
What was Old Man saying? Couldn’t help him? Couldn't let the others help him? Why?
“But… why?” Ichigo asked, feeling upset and betrayed.
“Because he has commanded me not to and his word is law.” Old Man replied.
“Who is ‘he’? What are you talking about? Whose orders are you following?!” Ichigo demanded.
“Mine.” Yhwach’s voice suddenly stated.
Ichigo’s eyes snapped open and he saw Yhwach standing over him. He immediately stiffened in fear and shock. How had Yhwach gotten so close without Ichigo noticing? And how long had he been standing there? And why the fuck would Old Man be listening to his orders!
“What?” Ichigo asked.
“You asked who’s orders he was listening to. They were mine. My orders.” Yhwach replied, nodding.
Ichigo stared at him, trying to wrap his mind about that statement, but the longer he stared, the more something started to tickle the back of his brain. It had been there the whole time, just nagging at him, but he hadn’t been able to slow down long enough to focus on it. Staring up at Yhwach, with his black cloak and long hair, suddenly another face appeared over top of his, one that wore yellow sunglasses, and Ichigo’s whole world shook violently.
“Old Man is…?” Ichigo whispered.
“That’s right. As I said before, you are a Quincy and all Quincies carry a piece of me in them. This “Old Man” you talk about is that part and he is following my orders as I commanded him to.” Yhwach nodded.
Ichigo felt the stab of betrayal deep in his soul. Old Man… he was…?
“I’m sorry. Ichigo.” Old Man whispered before all communication was cut off.
Ichigo’s soul was suddenly silent. The constant stream of background noise he had gotten so used to was gone once more and Ichigo freaked.
“NO! NO NO NO, OLD MAN! COME BACK!” Ichigo grabbed the sides of his head, his heart pounding wildly in his chest.
He couldn’t be alone again! He had just gotten them back! He had struggled with the silence for 17 months! He couldn’t do that again! He couldn’t! His screaming was so loud it filled the room as Ichigo curled into himself, desperately looking for the noise he was missing. Hands grabbed his and pulled it from the side of Ichigo’s head. Ichigo’s panicked eyes locked with Yhwach’s as his breaths came out shaky and short.
“Shhhh, shhh now my son. You are hurting yourself. You need to calm down.” Yhwach said gently, like he was speaking to a spooked animal.
Ichigo just started to shake his head, trembling as he forced the words from his mouth.
“Give them back! Give them back to me! It’s too quiet! I just got them back! I can’t-!” Ichigo demanded, panicked but also angry.
“I’m sorry, but for now, it’s best for everyone if you don’t have access to those powers. I will return them when you are ready.” Yhwach stated.
Ichigo stared at him, wide eyed and then he surged forward. His hands reached for Yhwach’s throat as Ichigo snarled.
“FUCK YOU! YOU DON’T GET TO TAKE THEM AWAY FROM ME! GIVE THEM BACK! GIVE THEM BACK!” Ichigo screamed.
Yhwach’s back hit the floor as he held the hybrid back with a hand to his chest as Ichigo desperately tried to claw at him. His eyes narrowed in rage as he reached out and grabbed Ichigo’s still healing arm. Ichigo screamed in agony as he twisted it before Ichigo fell to the side, cursing as he curled into himself.
“Your Majesty!” Haschwalth burst into the room, hand on his sword.
Yhwach huffed as he sat up, but stopped Haschwalth with a raise of his hand. Dusting himself off, he stood up and eyed the young man, curled up in misery on the floor.
“It seems I have been too lenient with you, Ichigo. Allowing you a free range of motion has clearly given you the belief you are allowed to do whatever you wish. So allow me to fix that.” Yhwach stated coldly.
Ichigo glared up at him with rage.
“Just kill me! I would rather die!” Ichigo spat.
Yhwach sighed deeply and stepped back. Walking over to a wall, he pressed his hand to it and before their eyes, a pair of shackles attached to chains appeared. Ichigo froze when he saw them. He immediately tried to get up, trying to put distance between himself and that wall, but Haschwalth was there, grabbing him and dragging towards it as Ichigo fought tooth and nail. It didn’t do much, like a kitten trying to fight a tiger.
“Get off me!” Ichigo yelled.
Yhwach grabbed him and shoved him against the wall, his eyes narrowed in rage.
“You brought this upon yourself with your actions. Had you simply listened and not reacted poorly, this wouldn’t be happening.” Yhwach replied.
Between Yhwach and Haschwalth, Ichigo found himself chained up, His arm ached something fierce and he gritted his teeth as the agony ripped through him. Yhwach grabbed his face and forced it up.
“You continue to make this painful for yourself. I wish you would understand that, but until you do, then you can stay chained like a dog. Let us go, Haschwalth.” Yhwach pulled his hand away and Ichigo’s head slumped.
“Yes, Your Majesty.” Haschwalth followed him out the door, but not without one final glare Ichigo’s way.
Ichigo watched as the door closed before he squeezed his eyes shut.
“Please. Please answer me.” Ichigo begged.
His mind stayed eerily silent.
—sSs—
Uryuu wasn’t sure what was going on, but something had changed. His Majesty had seemed distracted since they had come back from Soul Society, but distracted in a way that seemed serious, like it was something big that had his attention. Uryuu had tried to ask around, but between those who didn’t know and those who didn’t like him, he got nothing. All he knew is it had to do with a hallway he wasn’t allowed down. Even going near the hallway had caused His Majesty to become irate and so Uryuu just had to hope… whatever it was… it wasn’t anything too bad.
—sSs—
Haschwalth stared at the monitors, focused on the one that showed Kurosaki’s room. So far, all the boy had done since they left his room was stand there, begging for someone to talk to him, for someone to answer him, for the quiet to end. Haschwalth watched this with dark eyes, wondering if the boy was going mad or something.
His Majesty had explained it, that shinigami could talk to their swords and their swords could talk back because they could have their own personalities, but this seemed bizarre. Haschwalth shook his head, wondering why Yhwach was bothering with him.
“He is not worth it.” Haschwalth muttered.
“Is he now?” Yhwach’s voice made Haschwalth jump.
“Your Majesty. I’m sorry I was-” Haschwalth was cut off when Yhwach placed a hand on his shoulder, patting it gently.
“At ease, Haschwalth. Had I wanted you to know I was here, I would have told you.” Yhwach said as he turned his attention to the monitor before them.
Haschwalth glanced at the side of His Majesty’s face, watching as Yhwach’s eye lit up with something… unholy. Haschwalth swallowed and turned back to the monitor.
“Tell me, Haschwalth, what do you see when you look at Kurosaki Ichigo?” Yhwach asked.
Haschwalth frowned and eyed the hybrid once more.
“I’m afraid I don’t quite see the point in keeping him alive… he’s dangerous.” Haschwalth said softly.
“That he is. To everyone.” Yhwach agreed.
Haschwalth turned back to the monitor and was startled to see Ichigo staring directly into the camera and his eyes were ringed with gold. Haschwalth swallowed hard, startled to find himself sweating a bit.
“And he will continue to be dangerous until someone finally manages to get him under control… and I plan on being that someone. Even if I have to break him to do it.” Yhwach turned and walked out of the room.
Haschwalth watched him go before turning his attention back to the camera.
Chapter 3: Changing Tactics
Summary:
Yhwach knows time is running out. He needs Ichigo if he is going to take the throne and so far, Ichigo is being stubborn. Oh well, no more Mister Nice Guy.
Chapter Text
“He’s gone, you say?” Ichibei said, rubbing his chin.
Shinji stared at the Royal Guards before them, feeling annoyed. Of course they fucking showed up after everything has already happened and Ichigo was taken. Shinji personally thought it was really convenient that they hadn’t been here when Soul Society needed them most, but whatever. He hoped they would be useful now.
“Yes, he was taken by Yhwach.” Shunsui explained.
“That’s not good. That is not good at all.” Ichibei said with a deep frown.
“Weren’t we sent here to train that kid? What are we supposed to do now?” Kirinji demanded.
“This is the worst possible scenario.” Senjumaru muttered.
Shinji's temper flared and he stepped forward.
“Yes, we know that! You don’t have to rub it in that Ichigo might be-” Shinji cut himself off, unable to finish that sentence.
Ichibei’s eyes landed on him.
“Hm? You think he’s dead?” Ichibei asked, almost amazed.
Shinji paused, staring at him in confusion. Most of the captains were actually. Meanwhile the Royal Guards looked at them in amazement, as if they couldn’t understand how they had come to such an ludicrous idea.
“He isn’t?” Shinji whispered.
“Oh no, no! Yhwach is a monster, but not a fool. He would never let Ichigo die before he could absorb his power into himself.” Ichibei chuckled.
Somehow, that made Shinji feel worse. What the fuck did that mean? As the Royal Guards started to gather those they were taking for training (Rukia, Renji, Byakuya), Shinji stood there. His mind drifted and he wondered, perhaps, maybe, he would see Ichigo again one day. Then wondered if that would be a good thing.
“At the very least, we have Zangetsu. Perhaps we can use that to find him?” Ukitake said calmly.
Ichibei stared at him blankly.
“Who?” Ichibei asked, confused.
Everyone blinked at him.
“Zangetsu? Kurosaki-san’s zanpakuto.” Sajin stated.
Ichibei turned to Oetsu, who tilted his head to the side with thought. He seemed puzzled, like he had no idea what to make of that.
“Hm, can I see it?” Oetsu asked.
Shunsui waved his hand to a box on the ground.
“We brought it with us just in case you would make such a request.” Shunsui stated.
Oetsu walked over and knelt down, eying the blade with curiosity. Ichibei leaned over his shoulder, curiously.
“This isn't one of mine.” Oetsu finally said, his finger running over the handle.
“What?” Kirinji said, looking startled.
“How is that possible?” Kirio asked.
“No idea. But I can tell you right now, this isn’t one of mine. I have no idea where he got it but…” Oetsu turned to them, lowering his glasses.
“He’s not a real shinigami and this isn’t a zanpakuto.”
—sSs—
Bazz-B was annoyed. Deeply and horribly annoyed. Between that orange haired kid that His Majesty was interested in and the introduction of that four eyed Gremischt Quincy as His Majesty’s successor? Bazz-B was starting to think His Majesty was losing it. Why else would he bring a creature like Kurosaki here? Why not just kill him? That’s what Bazz-B would have done, but he guessed there was some big plan for the kid or whatever.
“What a fucking joke.” Bazz-B spat as he continued down the hall.
Jugram might be ok with how everything was going, but Bazz-B wasn’t. Not one bit. He would see to it himself that the so-called “successor” would fall and the right one (him) would take his place.
—sSs—
Aizen knew something had changed on the surface. There was a strange tension in the air that had shifted ever so slightly.
“Curiouser and curiouser.” he thought to himself.
Admittedly, the Quincy King of legend coming to see him had been fascinating in and of itself. A man thought destroyed thousands of years ago had risen again along with his long thought dead army. Aizen would have been a fool not to speak with him for at least a little bit. On top of that, the man was clearly arrogant and seemed to believe he was some great “Savior” coming to fix what had been left to rot. Aizen personally thought he was stupid or at least blind to the reality around him.
And then Kurosaki Ichigo’s presence had disappeared. Suddenly, Aizen had started to think the man might not be so stupid. Taking the young hero, for whatever reason, was a master level chess move. Kurosaki could change the course of any war, something Aizen had learned the hard way.
“But is he smart enough to do something with him?” Aizen considered.
Did Yhwach just see Kurosaki as a roadblock on his path to the throne to be rid of? Or did he know about Kurosaki’s origins? Depending on this information would make clear what Yhwach was planning on doing next. Aizen knew that there were theories about what Yhwach could do, but how many of them were true and how many were lies? Aizen had no idea.
Mapping out the available information in his mind, Aizen settled on one clear path forward. If Yhwach had taken Kurosaki and was smart enough to force the young man to his side, Soul Society and the three worlds as a whole were doomed. In that case, he would just have to throw his power behind the shinigami and pray for a miracle.
—sSs—
Yuzu glanced up from her soup. Staring up at the sky, she frowned deeply. She didn’t know why, but she felt like crying. Why did it feel like…?
“Yuzu? You ok?” Karin asked as she looked up from the TV.
“I feel… sad.” she muttered softly.
“Sad?” Karin sat up, turning to stare at her.
Yuzu just nodded.
“About what?” Karin pushed, pausing her show.
Yuzu frowned and looked into the soup she was making.
“I’m not sure. I just feel like… Ichi-nii is sad somewhere. Are you sure he’s just at a training camp?” she asked, looking at her twin.
Karin, who wasn’t a good liar by any means, immediately looked away.
“Of course. Isn’t that what Dad told us?” Karin replied, her voice even.
Yuzu stared at her before turning back to her soup. She gave it a stir, letting the silence hang in the air. Sometimes, she wished her sister would be more honest with her. Hell, she wished her whole family was more honest with her!
“I guess.” she mumbled.
“Don’t worry, ok? Ichi-nii will be back before you know it!” Karin said as she went back to her show.
As the TV started up again, Yuzu just looked up at the sky again. A single tear rolled down her cheek and dripped into the soup before she reached up to rub her eyes and focus back on dinner for her family.
“Ichi-nii. Please be safe. Come home soon.” Yuzu thought.
—sSs—
Ichigo watched with dark eyes as the door opened. He had lost track of how long he had been standing, but his whole body ached, especially his arm. He felt hungry and dehydrated, probably from all the screaming, but Ichigo had been forced to come to the conclusion that he wouldn’t be getting his powers back until this man was dead and he would die, Ichigo would make sure of it. He was done cowering under his man’s gaze. If Yhwach wanted to break him, then Ichigo would give him hell before that and if he died in the meanwhile… then fine, but he was going down swinging.
Yhwach walked in with another tray. Another bowl of soup, water and bread, but no bandages or ointment. Yhwach approached him, but then stopped, keeping some space between them.
“I hope you have had a chance to calm down enough for us to speak civilly.” Yhwach stated simply.
Ichigo just stared at him and said nothing. Yhwach nodded thoughtfully before he put the tray down.
“This doesn’t have to be this way, Ichigo. You don’t have to suffer. You don’t have to stay in this small, cold room and be miserable. I would be more than happy to provide warm clothes and a bed for you to rest in. This is only happening because you are being stubborn.” Yhwach stated.
Ichigo just scowled. He didn’t give a shit what the man said. He was a liar anyway. Yhwach hummed and picked up the bowl with a spoon.
“It is fine if you want to stay silent, that does not bother me, but you will not heal without food. So open your mouth.” Yhwach said, picking up the spoon.
Ichigo turned his head away when the spoon came close.
“Oh? You are refusing to eat? Can you afford to do that?” Yhwach demanded, eyebrow raised.
Ichigo said nothing and Yhwach nodded.
“Very well. If that is what you wish, then starve. We will see how long it lasts.” Yhwach placed the bowl back down with a shrug.
Yhwach reached for the tray and picked up the bread. He ripped it into pieces and ate a piece himself with a hum. It was clearly fresh out of the oven. Ichigo could smell it and his stomach rumbled hungrily. Yhwach held out a piece of the bread, but again, Ichigo refused and Yhwach nodded.
“You know, I don’t waste food. I have watched too many of my children go hungry to let food go to waste. So if you reject it, then I will simply eat it.” Yhwach said before popping another piece in his mouth.
Yhwach finished the bread and clapped his hands together to clean off the crumbs. Yhwach then grabbed the bowl again and ate it, humming with delight at the taste.
“My chefs outdid themselves. They are quite good, but I think this might be their best soup yet. Very flavorful. Plenty of vegetables, chicken and a hearty broth. Everything you would need to restore your energy and heal.” Yhwach said before spoonfuls.
Ichigo said nothing. Yhwach smacked his lips when he finished and placed the bowl back down on the tray. With that done, he grabbed the water.
“Surely you need water? I can only imagine you’re rather dehydrated after earlier.” Yhwach stated, holding out the cup.
Ichigo refused once more, despite his mouth being drier than a desert. Yhwach sighed and sipped the water. When the cup was empty, he put it back down on the tray before picking the whole thing up.
“I suppose you need more time.” Yhwach said.
Ichigo watched as Yhwach turned and walked out, leaving Ichigo alone again.
—sSs—
“And that is what we have.” Urahara said calmly.
“Which is basically jackshit.” Grimmjow scowled.
To find out his rival had been taken was one thing, but to find out his rival had been taken AND might be dead was completely different! Nel was sniffling in the corner, trying not to outright cry, but it was clear she was just barely holding on. It was disgusting and weak, but Grimmjow could care less. No, what he cared about was the fact that Kurosaki was gone.
“You told me if I helped you, I would get to fight Kurosaki again! Now, he’s gone, so how the fuck are you going to fix that, huh?” Grimmjow hissed, much like the cat he was.
Urahara sighed deeply before looking at him.
“And that was the plan. In fact, I had a whole scenario set up where you two would battle to your heart’s content, settling Kurosaki-san’s power once more and making sure his ties to his hollow side were strong. But that plan has gone up in smoke.” Urahara replied.
Grimmjow’s eyes narrowed.
“Do you think he’s still alive?” Grimmjow asked as Nel whimpered.
Urahara pulled out his fan and fanned himself lightly.
“Truly? I believe so. But… that would be… truly, the worst case possible.” Urahara replied coldly.
“Worst case?” Nel asked.
Urahara nodded.
“If he is still alive… then I have no doubt Yhwach will have done everything in his power to break him.” Urahara replied.
“Break him.” Grimmjow mumbled.
“Ichigo can be… broken?” Nel asked.
Urahara gave her a very sad smile.
“Kurosaki-san is a lot more fragile than you think he is. On top of that he is human at his core. Humans are… incredibly breakable.” Urahara said softly.
—sSs—
Yhwach sat on his throne and held the tray out.
“The food was excellent. Thank you.” Yhwach said to the head chef, who bowed as he took the tray and walked away.
Yhwach settled down and rested his head on his fist, closing his eyes. Ichigo being stubborn wasn’t a surprise to him. He had expected that as soon as the shock of being taken had worn off, Ichigo would be back to his usual, stubborn self. Of course, Yhwach wasn’t happy that Ichigo had decided that starvation was the way to go, but he was sure that would be easily overcome.
Tapping his finger on his armrest, Yhwach ran over every scenario, every future and finally came to a conclusion. He sighed deeply and rubbed his forehead, but set his shoulders.
“Forgive me, my son, but spare the rod…” Yhwach got up and his eyes were narrowed in determination.
“Spoil the child.”
Chapter 4: Stripped Of Humanity
Summary:
Yhwach has to up his game. Ichigo's stubbornness is truly getting on his last nerve and when that nerve finally snaps, it is Ichigo who suffers.
Chapter Text
Uryuu hid around a corner and watched as His Majesty and Haschwalth disappeared down the forbidden hallway again, carrying a bundle of clothing. His eyes narrowed as he turned away, uncertain, but knowing something was going on. He pushed his glasses up his nose. He was determined to find out what.
—sSs—
“I believe it’s time you change out of those robes, Ichigo. Surely, they aren’t keeping you warm.” Yhwach said, holding up a bundle of clothing as he stepped into Ichigo’s room (cell).
Ichigo glared at him, his body trembling slightly. He was cold, but he refused to wear anything with that man’s insignia on it. He still had his pride. Yhwach hummed and snapped his fingers. Haschwalth stepped up and pulled his sword. Ichigo pressed back against the wall, his eyes uncertain of what he was going to do with that.
“We can do this the easy way or the hard, humiliating way, Ichigo. I can release you and you can change of your own volition or I have Haschwalth cut those rags from your body and leave you to freeze. The choice is your’s, but I will not have my palace disgraced with the mark of the shinigami even a moment more.” Yhwach explained.
Ichigo’s eyes narrowed, but he did not speak.
“Very well. Haschwalth, please try to cut them with the least amount of damage to him as possible.” Yhwach stated.
“Yes, Your Majesty. I will try.” Haschwalth said as he stepped forward.
Ichigo’s leg shot out and he caught Haschwalth in the stomach, making him groan and stumble back. Haschwalth glared at him as he held his now bruised stomach. Yhwach clicked his tongue in disappointment.
“Oh dear, you wish to make it even harder on yourself? Very well.” Yhwach stated.
A reishi sword appeared in his hand and he slashed Ichigo from the shoulder, across his chest and to his hip. Ichigo yelled as the material gave way and so did some skin, leaving him bleeding. Yhwach did not relent, not even as Ichigo cried out in pain as he continued to slice the skin underneath as he cut the clothing away. When he finished, the clothing hung off Ichigo in bits and pieces. The only place Yhwach hadn’t sliced at was around the pelvic area, but the pants were barely holding up, even with his belt.
Ichigo glared at both men, his face flushed with rage and embarrassment as his blood ran down his body and dripped onto the floor. Sure, he wasn’t some maiden that needed to protect her modesty and his jacket had been torn more times than he could count, but this was about as humiliating as you could get.
“I warned you and you continue not to listen. I am starting to think you are being stubborn simply for stubborn’s sake.” Yhwach stated, stabbing his sword into the floor.
Yhwach held up the clothing again.
“Once more, we can do this the easy way or the hard way, Ichigo. I would hate for you to get sick and be in pain because you refuse to believe I am trying to help you. If you agree, I will even make sure your wounds are bandaged.” Yhwach pushed.
Ichigo trembled, feeling the cold already seeping into his skin. Sure, his jacket hadn’t been that warm, but it had been enough. Now, Ichigo had nothing to protect him from the freezing air. Getting no answer, Yhwach sighed and shook his head.
“Very well. Perhaps some time will help you clear your head. Come, Haschwalth. We will get your stomach checked out.” Yhwach waved his hand and the sword disappeared.
“Yes, Your Majesty.” Haschwalth muttered as he put his sword away.
Yhwach dropped the clothes to the floor before he turned and walked out, Haschwalth following him. Ichigo was left standing there, practically naked and bleeding.
—sSs—
“Kid is fucking stubborn as hell.” Bazz-B said, eying the monitor.
Haschwalth sighed deeply, his hand still resting on his stomach. He hadn’t even seen the kick coming, which had been his own incompetence showing. How foolish he had been to get close to the hybrid. His Majesty kept reminding him that Ichigo was dangerous, no matter how weak he looked, but he had allowed himself to believe Ichigo would never attack him, chained up as he was. Clearly he had been wrong.
“Kid’s shaking like a leaf.” Bazz-B muttered.
Haschwalth tuned back in to see that Bazz-B was correct. Ichigo was shivering, his head bowed, and his body curled into itself to keep warm. The bleeding wounds had disappeared, but it had taken quite a while for them to heal. It seems he wasn’t healing at the same rate he usually did.
“Good. It is his own foolishness that he is suffering like this.” Haschwalth said annoyed.
“Yeah, but I thought His Majesty didn’t want the kid dead?” Bazz-B glanced at him.
Haschwalth’s jaw clenched before they watched the door open and Yhwach stepped back inside Ichigo’s room (cell).
“Oh boy. Here we go again.” Bazz-B said, leaning back in his chair.
The two watched as Yhwach approached Ichigo.
—sSs—
“It’s been some time, my son. Surely, you realize that your fiery temper won’t be enough to keep you warm?” Yhwach stated as he walked in, another tray of food.
Ichigo stared at him, his teeth chattering. His lips were blue and so were his finger tips. It’s clear the cold was getting to him. Any longer and he would certainly be in trouble. Still Ichigo said nothing.
“Do you really wish to freeze to death? I promise you, it is a wretched way to go.” Yhwach said.
Ichigo said nothing. Yhwach sighed deeply, but Ichigo noticed there was a bit of force behind it, showing his clear frustration.
“At the very least eat so you may keep your strength up. The only reason you are even standing is because the chains are keeping you up. If not for them, you would be on the floor.” Yhwach stated.
He placed the tray down and grabbed the bowl. Again, when he brought the spoon to Ichigo’s mouth, he turned his head away. Ichigo’s stomach growled hungrily, but Ichigo still refused. He would not give in. Yhwach’s jaw clenched.
“My patience wears thin, Ichigo. If you will not accept food willingly, I will have to force feed you.” Yhwach said.
Ichigo’s eyes locked with his and he saw the challenge there. His eyes said “go ahead and try it.” Yhwach chuckled and nodded his head.
“Very well.” Yhwach dropped the spoon to the floor and stepped closer.
Ichigo pressed against the wall, but that didn’t really help him. Instead, Yhwach used that to his advantage. Keeping Ichigo pressed against the solid surface with his larger body, his hand came up to grab Ichigo’s jaw, forcing it open by pressing against the hinges on the sides. Ichigo tried to shake his head or pull away, but there was nowhere for him to go. Yhwach yanked Ichigo’s chin up and then poured some of the bowl into his mouth. Ichigo immediately choked and sputtered, getting it everywhere, including on both of them.
“Drink or drown, Ichigo. Those are your only two options.” Yhwach said coldly.
Ichigo glared at him, still attempting to get away, but he just didn’t have the energy. Exhausted and coughing, Ichigo slumped against Yhwach. It didn’t help that Yhwach was warm and Ichigo’s body was desperately working against his brain and pride to move closer to get some of that warmth to survive.
“Your suffering is because of your own hubris, Ichigo. If you would simply listen, you would understand I mean you no harm.” Yhwach stated.
Ichigo glared at him, tears in the corners of his eyes. Yhwach waited a moment and then forced Ichigo’s head back again.
“Drink.” he commanded.
Ichigo, with no other option, closed his eyes as the remainder of the soup was poured down his throat. It did actually taste good, which fucking sucked. If he survived this, he would never be able to eat soup like this again. As the last of the bowl dribbled down his chin, Yhwach nodded and released him. Ichigo shivered as Yhwach pulled back.
“Not bad, was it? My chefs will be pleased to see you finished the whole thing.” Yhwach stated as he put the bowl back on the tray.
Ichigo panted, coughing every once in a while to clear his airway. The soup actually did make him feel better. It helped warm him up slightly. Yhwach reached for the bread next and Ichigo eyed it warily.
“I would rather not have to shove this down your throat.” Yhwach stated as he tore it into small pieces.
Ichigo swallowed hard, but straightened his spine. Again, Yhwach brought the bread up, but Ichigo turned away. Yhwach hummed as he forced Ichigo back once more. He put the piece of bread between his fingers and forced his jaw open again. Shoving the bread into Ichigo’s mouth, Ichigo immediately bit down as hard as he could.
“Bastard!” Yhwach wretched his hand away before slapping Ichigo across the face.
Ichigo cried out as his head jerked to the side. Yhwach pulled back and eyed the teeth marks on his glove. Thankfully, Ichigo’s teeth hadn’t penetrated it, but they still throbbed. Yhwach slowly looked at Ichigo, rage in his eyes.
“I see.” Yhwach muttered.
Ichigo swallowed hard, faintly tasting leather on his tongue. Yhwach moved towards him and grabbed him by the hair with one hand while he pressed the other against the wall. The chains released Ichigo, startling him, but Ichigo didn’t have a chance before he was thrown to the floor. Ichigo tried to push back up, but Yhwach’s boot came down hard on his back, making Ichigo cough up some soup, which spattered on the floor.
“I have tried to be understanding. I have tried to be kind. I have tried to give you a chance, but over and over again, I am disappointed! If you refuse to act like a human, then I will treat you like the beast you insist on being!” Yhwach said coldly.
Ichigo glared at him over his shoulder. Yhwach stepped back and called upon his next weapon, a reishi whip. Ichigo stared at it, startled. Yhwach reached down and tore what remained of Ichigo’s jacket from his back, leaving him truly exposed.
“Ten lashes for your insolence, five for acting like an animal and five more for being disrespectful.” Yhwach stated.
He didn’t give Ichigo a chance to think twice before he brought the whip down on Ichigo’s unprotected back. Ichigo let out a startled cry before biting his lip to keep from making anymore sounds and immediately tried to move away. Yhwach didn’t let him. He stood over Ichigo’s fallen form, bringing the whip down over and over, counting out each lash loudly as he did so. On the fifth hit, Ichigo’s back was cut open. On the eighth, Ichigo had several cuts that were bleeding. By the twelfth, Ichigo’s back was a mess of torn flesh and blood. By the sixteenth, Ichigo finally started to scream. As the last hit landed, Ichigo let out a choked sob, curling into himself.
Yhwach stepped back, panting slightly as he looked down at the mess that was Ichigo’s skin. There was blood splattered all over the walls, ceiling and floor. Yhwach even had some on his cheek and clothing, which he wiped away with a small handkerchief he pulled from his pocket. He took a moment to calm down, listening to the sound of Ichigo’s shaky breathing. The whip disappeared from his hand as he knelt down and pressed that same cloth to the wounds on Ichigo’s back, making him screech in pain.
“How vile. I never wished to do this to you, Ichigo, my poor son. But this is what happens when you go against me. I hope this will make you reconsider your stance.” Yhwach said calmly.
Ichigo just glared at him and Yhwach sighed. He grabbed Ichigo and dragged him back to the wall, kicking away the tray, making the bowl smash to pieces and the water spill all over, mixing with the blood on the floor. He slammed Ichigo back first against the wall. Ichigo screamed before his eyes rolled back in his head, slipping into unconsciousness. Before he could collapse, Yhwach chained his wrists back up before stepping back.
“How tragic.” he mumbled.
He walked over to the tray and gathered the items before he left the room.
—sSs—
Yhwach stood in his shower, his stained uniform on the floor as he washed the blood from his skin. Haschwalth stood nearby, a towel and new, clean uniform in hand. The other would be burned. Yhwach never wanted to see it again.
“Tell me, do you think I went too far, Haschwalth?” Yhwach asked, watching as the blood disappeared down the drain.
“You said it yourself, Your Majesty. He’s acting like an animal. If that is what he is going to act like, then he should be treated as such.” Haschwalth replied evenly.
Yhwach hummed lightly. As the water finally ran clear, he turned the shower off and Haschwalth handed him the towel.
“It hurts me to cause him agony, but he is clearly too stubborn for his own good.” Yhwach said as he ran the towel over his body.
He paused, an idea suddenly coming to him.
“Too stubborn for his own good… hmmm perhaps that is the key.” Yhwach said.
“What is?” Haschwalth said, confused.
“Ichigo… he has two younger sisters, does he not?” Yhwach asked as he took the uniform and started to put it on.
“He does, yes.” Haschwalth nodded.
Yhwach finished getting dressed and glanced at Haschwalth.
“I think, perhaps, Ichigo needs a different type of push… bring me his sisters.” Yhwach commanded.
Haschwalth bowed.
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
—sSs—
Byakuya stared blankly at the Royal Guard before him.
“Gone.” Byakuya said coldly.
“Taken.” the other corrected.
Byakuya swallowed hard.
“Is there a plan…?” Byakuya was cut off when Kirinji sighed, shaking his head.
“There isn’t. We can’t afford it. So as much as the kid was useful, he’s a lost cause at this point.” Kirinji stated boredly.
Byakuya blinked rapidly and looked away. Kurosaki was gone, taken by the same man who had killed the Captain Commander. The very idea, the very thought that Byakuya had… Byakuya had begged the young man to save Soul Society in his stead. Instead, he had sent the man (no, not a man, because Ichigo was still just a boy, several hundred years his junior) to his death.
“He’s not dead you know.” Kirinji said.
Byakuya looked at him again, puzzled.
“But why not?” Byakuya asked.
“Because while he’s a lost cause for us, he’s useful to them. So don’t be shocked if you see him on the battlefield. As an enemy.” Kirinji replied.
Byakuya felt a shiver go up and down his spine.
“Kurosaki would never.” Byakuya said coldly.
Kirinji raised an eyebrow, chewing on his straw.
“The king is not known for taking no for an answer. Even if he didn’t want to… Yhwach will find a way.” Kirinji stated.
Byakuya swallowed.
“So I suggest you train and train really hard. You’re gonna need it.” With that, the man flashed away.
Byakuya stared at where the man had been standing. His brain was eerily silent. He didn’t want to believe it, didn’t even want to think about it. Maybe it would be kinder to assume the young man was dead, but an enemy? He couldn’t even imagine it. Not after all everything he had done to save Soul Society.
“It can’t be.” Byakuya muttered.
Byakuya refused to believe it, not even for a moment. Kurosaki would die first. Byakuya shook his head before he closed his eyes and leaned back into the water. He would heal and get stronger. Once he was ready, he would take back his bankai, his pride and his home.
Chapter 5: Bend The Knee And Give Away Your Life
Summary:
Ichigo isn't ready for Yhwach to use his sisters against him. Yhwach is willing to use anything if that means his victory. Ichigo never had a chance.
Chapter Text
Yuzu was home alone when there was a knock at the door. Glancing up from her stew, she frowned, but turned it down as she went to see who was knocking.
“Coming!” she called as she grabbed a towel to wipe her hands.
A part of her hoped it was her brother on the other side of the door. He had been gone for several days, close to a week, now and while both her father and sister tried to tell her it was ok, that he was just busy and that he would be home soon, but that didn’t mean Yuzu wasn’t concerned.
“Welcome to the Kurosaki Clinic, how can I help you?” Yuzu asked, a speech she had done a million times before as she opened the door.
The man standing on the other side was tall, with long blonde hair and a handsome face. Yuzu was immediately smitten with him, he looked like something right out of a fantasy movie! What was a movie star like him doing here? Were they shooting a movie nearby and she didn’t know?
“Good evening. I am looking for Kurosaki Yuzu?” the man asked.
“That’s me! How can I help you?” Yuzu replied, politely.
He placed a hand on his chest and bowed. Yuzu almost swooned. He was just like a prince!
“My name is Haschwalth Jugram. Your brother, Ichigo, asked for me to come get you. Unfortunately, there has been a rather bad accident and your brother needs your help.” he explained.
Her heart dropped into her stomach. Ichi-nii was in an accident?
“Ichi-nii? I-Is he ok?” she asked, her voice shaking.
“He has been badly injured. All he asked for was his sisters. So please come with me.” he held out his hand and Yuzu’s first reaction was to take his hand and follow him wherever he took her.
The other, more cautious part of her brain immediately kicked that reaction to the curb, because hold the phone. If Ichigo was injured and as badly injured as this man was claiming, why was he asking for his sisters and not their father? A doctor? Second, Yuzu eyed his outfit with confusion. It wasn’t an officer’s uniform or any kind of uniform she had ever seen before. She pulled her hand back and moved backwards into the clinic, ready to shut the door if she got the feeling he was dangerous.
“I’m sorry, but who are you to my brother exactly? Because you don’t seem like a police officer and Ichi-nii has never mentioned that name before.” Yuzu said slowly.
Haschwalth frowned.
“I am an… ally of his.” he said, but his voice caught on “ally”.
Alarm bells were going off loud and clear, but what could Yuzu do? She was home alone and if this man really did know her brother and her brother actually was injured… The man pulled his hand back, sensing her unease.
“I swear to you, my only task is to bring you and your sister to your brother, who has asked for you both. I have no interest in harming you or her.” Haschwalth stated.
Yuzu stared at him and he seemed sincere, but-
“Who the fuck are you?” Karin’s voice piped up and Yuzu glanced around him to see Karin walking up to the door.
“Karin! Karin, oh Ichi-nii is-!” her eyes welled with tears, thankful her sister had finally returned home.
“What? What about Ichi-nii?” Karin seemed thrown off.
Haschwalth turned to her.
“Your brother has been in a bad accident and is gravely injured. I have been asked to come and get you both on his behalf.” Haschwalth stated.
Karin’s eyes narrowed and she placed a hand on her hip.
“That so, huh? So, what’s with the getup? Because you don’t look like anyone I’ve seen hanging around my brother before.” Karin demanded.
Haschwalth sighed deeply.
“The allies your brother had originally surrounded himself with are no longer in the picture. I apologize, but I do not have much time. I must ask that you come with me if you wish to see your brother again.” Haschwalth said, holding out both his hands.
Yuzu and Karin locked eyes. Karin could see her own fear and uncertainty in Yuzu’s eyes, but their love for their brother won out. They both took his hands.
“Let us go.” the portal ripped open before their eyes and the girls didn’t have a chance to think twice before being pulled through.
The building they ended up in was cold and vast. Haschwalth immediately began to lead the way. The girls glanced at each other, but followed him. Walking through the white halls, the girls shivered from both the cold and a growing sense of unease, crowding together to keep each other warm. Eventually, they ended up at a door and for a moment, Haschwalth stopped. He directed them to stand before the door before he placed a hand on each of their shoulders.
“Please… forgive what you are about to see.” Haschwalth whispered softly as the door opened.
—sSs—
Ichigo awoke when the door opened again. His eyes slowly cracked open as he watched Yhwach enter. Staring at the man, he wondered what torment was coming next. His body still ached from the last time.
“Good, you are awake.” Yhwach stated.
There was no tray this time and no weapon. Yhwach had his hands folded behind his back, almost pleasantly. As if a few hours before, he hadn’t rained blows down upon Ichigo’s defenseless form. The dried blood was still all over the walls and floor as an unholy reminder.
“I hope you have learned your lesson, but I doubt you have. Your insistence on stubbornness is going to continue to cause you grief, Ichigo.” Yhwach stated.
Ichigo just stared. Silent. Yhwach sighed and stepped forward. Ichigo curled into himself instinctually, but that caused the wounds on his back that had barely healed to break open once more. He hissed as they started to sluggishly bleed. Yhwach stopped as the blood started to drip, adding to the blood already on the floor.
“More of my kin’s blood being spilt was never my intention. To harm you was never my intention and for you to be afraid of me… but I must continue on this path for it is the only one forward. Even if you come to loathe me with everything in your heart.” Yhwach said.
Ichigo stared at him, uncertain as the door opened again and…
“Ichi-nii?” the whispered voice of his darling sister made Ichigo’s eyes snap to her.
Haschwalth stood at the door, his sisters before him, his hand on each of their shoulders. Ichigo was going to be sick.
“Ah, Haschwalth, there you are. I was starting to become concerned.” Yhwach turned to them and the girls got a good look at their brother.
Yuzu gasped, her hands coming up to cover her mouth in horror as her eyes welled with tears. Karin went to take a step forward, as if to run to his side, but Haschwalth’s grip stopped her.
“And you must be Yuzu and Karin. I am pleased to see you both in such good health.” Yhwach stated.
“What did you do? WHAT DID YOU DO!” Karin screamed, glaring at him.
“Ichi-nii. Oh my god.” Yuzu whispered, tears running down her face.
Yhwach sighed deeply.
“Your brother has decided to be incredibly… difficult. I am hoping you two will be able to convince him to act differently.” Yhwach said calmly.
“You bastard! How could you!” Karin screamed.
Yhwach frowned. As he turned his attention fully to Karin, Ichigo was terrified. He kept shaking his head, trying to convey to her to be quiet, but she didn’t look at him. She couldn’t look at him, or she was going to start crying like Yuzu.
“My name is Yhwach. You have already met my right hand, Haschwalth. While it brings me no joy to bring you here like this, I am pleased to see you have both grown into strong young women.” Yhwach stated.
“I don’t give a DAMN what you think! Leave our brother alone!” Karin spat.
Yhwach tilted his head to the side.
“It seems stubborn and disrespectful attitudes run in the family. I do believe that is from your father’s side. No matter. That can be fixed.” Yhwach said calmly.
“Bite me!” Karin snarled.
Yhwach hummed lightly and glanced at Ichigo, who stared back, shaking his head desperately.
“It seems Ichigo is continuing his silent protest. How disappointing. Perhaps you two can convince him to speak, lest he get hurt again.” Yhwach said, his threat clear.
“Why? Why are you doing this?” Yuzu sobbed.
“Ichigo needs to learn that his actions have consequences. When he disobeys, he will be punished. Though…” Yhwach moved towards them.
Ichigo jerked in his chains, tugging at them with all his strength to get free as Yhwach moved closer and closer to his sisters.
“It seemed physical discipline has done nothing to make him understand what lesson I am trying to teach. So perhaps, he needs to learn a different way.” Yhwach stated, standing before them.
Karin and Yuzu stared at him, terrified. Haschwalth adjusted his grip to hold them by the arms instead to have better control.
“Spilling young Quincy blood, especially of two young girls, would upset me greatly, but if your brother is immune to his own pain, I wonder if he is immune to your’s. I suppose we will have to see, won’t we?” Yhwach leaned forward as he reached for Yuzu.
“STOP!” Ichigo’s scream echoed throughout the room, startling Haschwalth, Yuzu and Karin.
Yhwach’s hand stopped an inch from Yuzu’s trembling cheek as he turned his head. Ichigo had forced his arms as far as they would go, making the wounds on his back worse, but he didn’t care.
“Don’t hurt them! Please, I beg you!” Ichigo begged, his eyes wide with tears.
Yhwach hummed as he pulled his hand back and straightened up. He eyed Ichigo.
“Ah, so you can speak. And here I thought you had taken a vow of silence.” Yhwach said, almost amused.
Ichigo trembled as his eyes locked with Yhwach’s. Ichigo’s voice cracked from disuse and lack of water.
“Let them go.” Ichigo whispered.
“And why would I do that?” Yhwach asked.
“They are just little girls! They have nothing to do with this!” Ichigo yelled.
“Ichi-nii.” Yuzu whispered, her voice shaking.
“And what would you do, Ichigo, to keep them from being a part of this?” Yhwach asked.
“What?” Ichigo replied, thrown off.
“I’m asking you a very simple question. What would you do to keep your sisters safe?” Yhwach demanded.
“Ichi-nii, don’t answer that!” Karin yelled.
Yhwach sighed.
“Haschwalth.” he called.
Haschwalth jerked Karin’s arm behind her back, making her cry out.
“STOP! Leave her alone!” Ichigo yelled, desperately tugging at the chains.
“Karin!” Yuzu cried out.
“SILENCE!” Yhwach roared.
Everything went quiet as the king looked at Ichigo.
“Release her, Haschwalth. My point has been made.” Yhwach commanded.
“Yes, Your Majesty.” Haschwalth adjusted Karin’s arm until it was no longer hurting her, but still kept her in his grip.
“Asshole.” Karin spat.
“Answer my question, Ichigo. What would you give to keep your sisters safe?” Yhwach demanded.
“Anything.” Ichigo replied immediately.
“Oh? And how can I trust your words?” Yhwach demanded, jerking his finger to let the chains have more slack.
Ichigo stared at him and didn’t hesitate. His knees hit the ground and he bowed his head until it almost touched the floor. The twins yelled out, but Ichigo just closed his eyes.
“I’ll give anything to keep them safe. My body, my power, my life… so please… please don’t take my little sisters away.” Ichigo begged.
Yhwach walked over and stood over him. He eyed Ichigo’s trembling form before he nodded.
“Very well. Let us see if you can prove it.” Yhwach stated.
He moved over to where the discarded white uniform lay. It had some blood on it, but nothing too bad. Ichigo lifted his head, confused as Yhwach picked it up and brought it back over.
“I will release the chains and you will put this on. Should you fight against it, reject it or do anything that would bring my ire, your sisters will be the ones to take your punishment.” Yhwach dropped the clothes before Ichigo.
“Do you understand?” Yhwach demanded.
“Y-Yes.” Ichigo whispered, trembling.
Yhwach reached over and placed a hand on the wall. The chains released and Ichigo idly rubbed his wrists before he grabbed the clothes and stood up. Ichigo tried not to think about what he was doing, but he could feel the eyes on him. Yhwach’s, Haschwalth’s, his sisters’, all of them watched as Ichigo pulled what remained of his clothes off, the bits and pieces that managed to cling to him still, fell to the floor.
He tried not to feel embarrassed as he shuffled out of his pants. A glance told him that at least his sisters had the common decency to look away. He put the pants on first, then the under shirt and then the jacket. As he slid his arms through, he hissed as his back pulled, but didn’t dare stop. He even made sure it was buttoned properly before turning to Yhwach, uncertain.
The pleased look in Yhwach’s eye made Ichigo want to be ill. He knew what he had done had just sealed his fate forever.
“Kneel, Ichigo.” Yhwach commanded.
Ichigo nodded as he slowly got down on one knee. Karin had had enough.
“YOU FUCKING CREEP! GET AWAY FROM HIM!” Karin yelled, trying to yank herself one way while Yuzu tried to go the other, making Haschwalth hiss as he tried to keep them from escaping.
“LEAVE ICHI-NII ALONE!” Yuzu screamed, twisting wildly.
Yhwach sighed deeply, his patience running thin. Ichigo’s head snapped to them, trying to convey that they needed to stop.
“Haschwalth, please remove them. It is clear they are not ready to have this discussion quite yet.” Yhwach stated.
“Yes, guh! Your-Your Majesty!” Haschwalth grunted as he tried to drag them to the door.
“ICHI-NII!” the girls screamed, reaching for him.
“STOP!” Ichigo surged up, reaching for them when Yhwach stepped between them and physically stopped Ichigo from going to help his sisters.
They reached for him, he reached for them, but it was no use. The door closed and Ichigo’s shaking hand dropped. Ichigo let out a sob, slumping against the other man, who cooed almost gently in his ear. Ichigo no longer had the strength to stand. The only thing keeping him up was Yhwach’s grip on his arms.
“Come now, my son. It is only temporary. The day has been very emotional for you all. You need to rest and heal before speaking to them properly.” Yhwach said calmly.
“Y-You’ll take care of them, right? They won’t starve or be cold?” Ichigo whispered.
“Of course.” Yhwach pushed Ichigo back and held him by the arms.
“As long as you fall in line and do as you are told, your sisters will be safe and well cared for… understand?” Yhwach’s grip on Ichigo’s arms tightened.
“Yes.” Ichigo said.
“Yes what?” Yhwach demanded.
Ichigo stared at him and Yhwach could see something inside his eyes break.
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
—sSs—
Karin and Yuzu were shoved into an empty room. Karin whipped around and threw a punch, but it hit the now closed door instead of Haschwalth like she had hoped. The white door seemed to mock her and her powerlessness.
“YOU BASTARD! GET BACK HERE!” she screamed as she punched and kicked the door.
Yuzu dropped to her knees, absolutely wailing. Eventually, Karin was out of energy to keep up her attack. She stood there, trembling with rage as she panted.
“Karin! Karin! Ichi-nii!” Yuzu sobbed.
Karin turned to her before dropping to her knees and hugging her sister, her own eyes stinging with tears.
“Shhh, shhh, Yuzu. It will be ok. It will be ok.” Karin rubbed her back.
“How can you say that! Ichi-nii was…!” Yuzu let out another hysterical sob and Karin sighed before she pulled Yuzu back and shook her back and forth.
“Stop it!” Karin snapped.
Yuzu stopped, staring at her with wide eyes.
“Yuzu, you have to stop crying. You have to! Because we are going to need to be strong, for Ichi-nii.” Karin stated, rubbing her arms as an apology for her actions.
“W-What?” Yuzu sniffled.
Karin let out a shaky breath.
“Whatever this is, whoever that man is, it’s clear he is going to use us to make Ichi-nii do what he wants. Which means we are going to have to do what he says too to keep Ichi-nii safe. Do you understand?” Karin said.
“But, I don’t understand! What do they want from Ichi-nii?” Yuzu asked, her voice trembling.
“I don’t know. I really don’t, but it doesn’t matter. You know why?” Karin demanded.
Yuzu shook her head, confused.
“Because it’s clear whatever they want, they are willing to hurt us to break him to get it. You and I both know that Ichi-nii loves us, but to lose us would kill him, so we need to make sure that we don’t give them that chance.” Karin said seriously.
Yuzu swallowed.
“Ok.” she whispered.
Karin nodded and rubbed her arms.
“We have to be strong.” Karin said.
“For Ichi-nii.” Yuzu nodded.
There was a knock at the door that made them turn.
“Who is it!” Karin demanded, pulling her sister close.
Ichi-nii wasn’t there, so it would fall on her to protect Yuzu, who couldn’t protect herself. The thought made her scared, but also strengthened her resolve. Sure, Karin had only just started her training, but she would use everything she had learned to protect them both. The door opened to reveal the man from earlier. Karin glared at him with hatred.
“You!” Karin hissed.
Yhwach stepped into the room, the door closing softly behind him. Karin’s body tensed as he stood over them. They were trapped in here with him. Their odds weren’t great.
“Girls. I do apologize for what happened earlier, but I hope you understand why it had to happen.” Yhwach said calmly.
“How could you? How could you hurt him like that?” Yuzu whimpered.
Yhwach sighed deeply.
“You must understand, it was your brother’s stubbornness that caused him such great harm. I did not wish to do any of that, but I couldn’t let him go as he was either. Since he refused to listen to me, I had you two brought here so you could get through to him. I am pleased to see that it worked.” Yhwach stated.
“You beat him! You humiliated him! You made him bleed and for what!” Karin yelled.
Yhwach held up a finger and she stopped, gritting her teeth.
“Karin, I understand you are upset and overwhelmed, but I am going to make this clear: just like I told your brother from the beginning, if you show me disrespect, I will have to correct it. I will not allow such things in my presence. Understood?” Yhwach demanded coldly.
Karin wanted to snap at him again, but nodded instead.
“Very good. Now, as much as it pains me to harm Ichigo, I had to. Because it is for the greater good.” Yhwach explained.
The twins looked at each other, confused.
“I am not sure how much you have been told, if you have been told anything at all, but currently, the worlds are being held together by the Soul King. The Soul King, however, is dead. A corpse left to keep the worlds from collapsing, a lynchpin if you will. I plan on removing that corpse and taking the throne for myself. Ichigo is the key to that plan.” Yhwach stated.
“You’re-” Karin was cut off when Yuzu slapped her hand over Karin’s mouth.
Yhwach raised an eyebrow. They all knew what Karin had been about to say.
“I will let that one slide, but only because you didn’t finish. Be more careful with your words or your brother will be the one to pay for them.” Yhwach said simply.
The threat, however, was very clear. Karin swallowed and nodded. Yuzu removed her hand.
“But why Ichi-nii?” Yuzu asked.
Yhwach sighed and shook his head, almost sadly.
“Your brother. What a sad state of affairs that is. Created by a mad man, forced into being a weapon by the shinigami, little more than a guard dog for a corrupt and broken system. While I wish I had been able to sit with him and explain why he needed to change his stance and come to my side willingly, I do not have the time. My plan must come to fruition sooner rather than later. So while my actions may seem extreme, I assure you it is for the good of all.” Yhwach explained.
Yuzu was just shaking her head while Karin glared at him. Yhwach sighed deeply before he knelt down. Karin pulled Yuzu closer, covering her more.
“Have you ever wished for a world where death and fear don’t exist? Where you never have to worry about losing anyone again… like you lost your mother?” Yhwach demanded.
The twins stared at him, shocked.
“I have lost so many loved ones to death. To never see them again, to never speak with them again, truly breaks my heart. My goal is to destroy Death. To remove it completely. So that no one may ever lose another loved one. That is why I must take the throne and that is why I need Ichigo to help me.” Yhwach stated.
When neither of them spoke, he continued.
“When I have finally claimed the throne that is my birthright, I will free you all. On this, I swear.” Yhwach stated.
The twins had no choice, but to agree.
—sSs—
Ichigo looked around his new “room”. There wasn’t anything more in here than the last one. Just a small bed and a closet with no door. Ichigo saw it was full of uniforms like the one he was currently wearing. Ichigo resisted the urge to make a face.
“I am sure you understand why the room needs to stay so barren. As much as I would prefer to put you in a nicer one, you need to earn such a thing.” Yhwach stated.
Ichigo glanced at him, uncertain and afraid of upsetting him. The man had his sisters. That changed everything as far as Ichigo was concerned. He could handle himself and his own pain, but the very idea of his sisters being in pain made Ichigo sick to his stomach.
“Now that we have come to an… agreement, I will start your training immediately. You must be prepared for when we storm the Royal Palace.” Yhwach explained.
“Does that mean…?” Ichigo trailed off, unsure of if he was even allowed to ask.
“You will be given access to some of your powers, but only those I deem fit. Anything else will be kept sealed.” Yhwach replied.
Ichigo nodded slowly, looking away.
“Ichigo.” Ichigo turned to see Yhwach standing by his side.
Ichigo resisted the urge to jump back instinctually. Yhwach’s hand came up and grabbed his chin, gripping it with force. Ichigo could already feel the bruises forming.
“Your objective is to get strong enough for me to use. Nothing else. Once your task is done, I will release your sisters. Understand?” Yhach demanded.
“Yes… Your Majesty.” Ichigo muttered.
“Good. Now, get some rest. I will come for you in a few hours.” Yhwach pulled away.
The door slammed shut and Ichigo let out a breath before he walked over to the bed. He fell onto it and curled into a ball. His eyes closed and that was it. He was out cold.
—sSs—
Yhwach entered his throne room, sat on his throne and closed his eyes. The rest of the fortress was getting ready for their storming of the Palace. Ichigo had finally fallen into place and now, they were on the right path. It would only be a matter of time. His smile was sharp.
“My rise to the throne is secured.” he muttered darkly.
Chapter 6: Do You Know You Have 30 Minutes?
Summary:
Ichigo's first day as a Quincy goes about as well as you could expect. Yhwach is ruthless with his training, but Ichigo is determined to see it through. He just wonders if he will actually survive it.
Chapter Text
Ichibei stood on the platform of the Soul King’s throne, idly rubbing his chin.
“We have quite the predicament before us, my old friend.” Ichibei muttered.
The King, as always, said nothing, but Ichibei nodded as if he had.
“I will admit, I am very sad I never got to meet him. That Kurosaki boy. After how hard everyone worked to make him. Such a shame.” Ichibei sighed, as if he was in great pain.
The King said nothing. Ichibei turned his attention to the ceiling.
“Oetsu had been so excited to finally get his hands on that “zanpakuto” everyone was raving about, but when he checked it over, it was empty. It seems Kurosaki took his power with him. He is still studying the blade, but so far it refuses to be reforged or return to an asauchi. Truly a remarkable blade.” Ichibei muttered.
Ichibei paused.
“I found it curious, however. The Gotei 13… I would have thought they would keep the hybrid at arm’s length, but they all seemed so… upset, even heartbroken by his capture. Kirinji said even the Kuchiki Clan head seemed upset and we all know how well that clan does with emotions. Certainly not what I was expecting, but perhaps he has the power to charm people?” Ichibei said thoughtfully.
Again, the stone was silent, but Ichibei let out a laugh.
“Ah! You are quite right! I am sure they are attached to him like a child is attached to their favorite stuffed toy!” Ichibei’s laughter trailed off into chuckles before he sighed.
“How unfortunate. Such a damn shame he will have to die.” Ichibei mumbled.
—sSs—
The next morning, Ichigo was sitting on the bed when the door opened. He had at least switched uniforms since the other one was stained on the back with blood. He had left it at the bottom of the closet, unsure of what else to do with it. He hoped he wouldn’t get in trouble for it. As Yhwach stepped inside, Ichigo stood up. When he had woken up, he had come to three conclusions. One, his life and the lives of his sisters were in Yhwach’s hands. For that reason alone, he would do anything and everything the man demanded to keep them all alive.
The second conclusion followed closely behind the first, to save himself and his sisters, he was going to have to betray his friends, his allies and his own morals. He had no doubt Yhwach was going to keep pushing him until there was no resistance left, until Ichigo followed orders without questions. Yhwach would not be denied what he wanted, so Ichigo would do just that.
Finally, Ichigo would need to be able to kill. He had very rarely killed any of his enemies, but Yhwach was certainly going to command that of him. So he was going to have to learn to kill and kill quickly.
“Up and dressed. Very good.” Yhwach stated.
Ichigo just nodded.
“Then we can begin immediately. Let’s start with the basics, what do you know about Quincy power?” Yhwach demanded.
“Just what I have been told and what I have seen.” Ichigo admitted.
“From Ishida Uryuu, I assume?” he asked.
Ichigo stiffened, eyes wide.
“How do you…?” Ichigo muttered.
“I told you already, I know about all my children. Including him. Speaking of Uryuu, I suppose I should let you know that he is here and he has joined my Sternritters.” Yhwach stated.
Ichigo’s mouth dropped. Uryuu had…? Ichigo felt a wave of white hot anger come over him. Ichigo gritted his teeth to keep from demanding where he was. Had Uryuu known about this? Had he told Yhwach about Ichigo’s weaknesses? About his sisters!? Ichigo wanted to believe Uryuu had no idea, but Ichigo couldn’t assume anything anymore.
“I… see.” Ichigo said.
“You cannot blame him, Ichigo. We are his family, his kin. Just because he worked alongside the shinigami in the past means nothing. As he explained it to me, it was a means to an end.” Yhwach stated.
“A means to an end. Yeah, that sounds like him.” Ichigo whispered.
“Ichigo.” Yhwach said sternly.
Ichigo turned to him and his eyes were narrowed.
“Uryuu may join us for some of your lessons, but I suggest you keep your wits about you. Should I find out that you have told him of our… deal, I will be most cross. Understand?” Yhwach demanded.
“Yes, Your Majesty.” Ichigo whispered.
“Good. Now, let us start with a basic bow.” Yhwach pulled out a Quincy Cross, which Ichigo took with a shaking hand.
Faintly, he felt something give and gasped as a flood of power came over him. It was different though from what he was used to. His shinigami/hollow powers had always burned hot. Like molten lava. This power was different. Not quite cold, but cool. Like a refreshing lake on a warm day. Faintly, he could feel Old Man was with him, but he ignored the other. His betrayal still ran deep and Ichigo would probably never forgive him. Old Man whispered a soft apology, but Ichigo didn’t reply.
“There we go. True, pure Quincy power rushing through your veins.” Yhwach said, pleased.
“What do I…?” Ichigo started to ask, but almost immediately the cross started to light up and before long, a bow was in his hands.
Ichigo stiffened, confused, as Yhwach hummed.
“Interesting. It is like your power is itching to escape. That is fine with me.” Yhwach stated.
“It looks different.” Ichigo said, eying the bow.
“But of course. Not every Quincy bow looks the same. It is all based on the person. Your bow is quite something, Ichigo.” Yhwach stated.
Ichigo wasn’t sure what he meant by that. It was mostly black body with a thin glowing outline of blue. Ichigo shifted his body, trying to understand how to hold it. It was so different from a sword, so different than the large cleaver he was used to. He pictured Uryuu in his mind, focusing on how he always held himself when he was fighting. God damnit, why hadn’t he ever taken up archery like his mother had wanted?
“Very good, Ichigo. But keep your back straight and your arms locked.” Yhwach instructed.
Ichigo adjusted himself as he instructed. Ichigo vaguely remembered his mother giving him a small toy bow as a child. Ichigo had played with it for maybe a day before it had broken and Ichigo had cried to her about it being fragile. He had never gotten another one, but he remembered his mother being sad. Ichigo shook his head mentally and focused on the present.
“Your stance still needs work, but let us see how powerful your arrows are. Visualize an arrow. Find a spot on the wall and fire.” Yhwach pointed to a wall.
Ichigo eyed the wall. He eventually found a small dot and focused on that. He visualized an arrow and one quickly formed, though it was pitch black with a red tip. He pulled the string back.
“Fire.” Yhwach demanded.
Ichigo released and the arrow sliced through the air. The second it hit the wall, it exploded violently. Ichigo stumbled back, an arm coming up to cover his face with a cry of shock. He could feel the whole building shaking under his feet. When the last of the dust settled, Ichigo lowered his arm and gasped. There was a large hole in the wall now, revealing the frozen tundra beyond.
“My, my.” Yhwach chuckled.
Ichigo glanced at him before looking at the bow.
“That felt… like a Getsuga Tensho.” Ichigo mumbled.
Yhwach hummed lightly.
“That is not a shock. Your powers are all tied together. But remember.” Yhwach turned to him.
“Your powers are mine to control.” Yhwach said coldly.
“Right…” Ichigo mumbled as the bow disappeared.
Yhwach clicked his tongue, making Ichigo grit his teeth.
“Do you wish to try that again?” Yhwach demanded.
“Yes… Your Majesty.” Ichigo stated, correcting himself.
“Very good. Now, let us move to a training room and focus on controlling some of that strength.” Yhwach turned and walked away.
Ichigo had no choice, but to follow.
—sSs—
Karin glared at the man as he brought them trays of food. Her urge to kick the tray and let it fall was strong, but Yuzu reached past her and grabbed them both.
“Thank you.” Yuzu said quietly.
“You are welcome.” Haschwalth replied.
“Where’s Ichi-nii?” Karin demanded.
“Training with His Majesty.” Haschwalth stated.
Karin gritted her teeth, glaring at him even harder.
“You should learn to control your temper. It will do you no good here.” Haschwalth said coldly.
Karin opened her mouth, but Yuzu just grabbed the back of her shirt.
“Come on. Lunch.” Yuzu demanded.
Karin shot Haschwalth a final glare, but settled down to eat. Haschwalth watched them as he had been told to do. He didn’t like this anymore than the twins did, but he would never go against his Majesty’s orders. When they were done, he took the trays back and left without a word. Karin flipped him off as soon as the door closed.
“At least we know he’s alive.” Yuzu said, though her voice shook violently.
Karin sighed and hugged the other girl as she started to cry.
“Yeah. At least we have that.” Karin muttered.
That didn’t make either of them feel better.
—sSs—
Ichigo was panting, his body shaking with exhaustion. He was tired, he was cold and he was hungry, but he stayed standing. He would show no weakness. He couldn’t.
“Again.” Yhwach demanded.
Ichigo gritted his teeth as he raised his trembling arms. They ached something fierce, but Ichigo wasn’t about to beg to stop. They had been going for hours and Ichigo’s very soul felt rubbed raw. He was so, so sore and ready to collapse, but if the man wished to keep going, then Ichigo would keep going. Ichigo’s bow had shrunk considerably since they had started and the arrows were starting to look less and less like arrows.
“Release.” Yhwach commanded.
Ichigo let the arrow fly. It flew across the training room and hit the target, but the explosion this time was much smaller. The target was still mostly standing, but the top half was missing. Ichigo dropped to one knee, unable to keep standing.
“I see. I think we have found your limit.” Yhwach stated.
Ichigo resisted the urge to say “no shit”, focusing instead on keeping the dark spots out of his eyes.
“That is enough for now. Let us return to your room.” Yhwach turned and started to walk off.
“C-Can I see them?” Ichigo asked.
Yhwach paused and turned his head as Ichigo forced himself to his feet.
“My sisters. Can I see them?” Ichigo asked again.
“I don’t think you have earned such a thing yet.” Yhwach replied coldly.
“Please? I won’t interact with them, I just-” Ichigo was cut off.
“I said no.” Yhwach said, his voice sharp.
Ichigo swallowed and nodded.
“Right. I’m sorry, Your Majesty.” Ichigo mumbled.
Yhwach turned and started walking again. Ichigo was forced to stumble after him. Ichigo followed Yhwach without really paying attention to where they were going. He was barely able to keep standing, so walking was just torture, but he kept putting one foot in front of the other, relying on Yhwach to direct him. Yhwach pushed a door open and it was another room. Ichigo paused.
“You blew a hole in the wall of the last one. I am not foolish enough to leave you in a room like that. These walls are enforced and alarmed, so should you try to break out, I will know.” Yhwach stated.
“I’m not leaving without my sisters.” Ichigo replied before he stepped inside.
Yhwach just hummed.
“I suggest you change and clean yourself up. I will have Haschwalth come get you in an hour.” Yhwach demanded.
Ichigo turned to him, baffled.
“I am going to introduce you to my Sternritters. It’s about time they know about you, just in case they see you in the halls. So take your time to prepare yourself.” Before Ichigo could ask any questions, Yhwach turned and left, closing the door behind him.
“Fuck.” Ichigo whispered.
—sSs—
Uryuu wasn’t sure what was going on, but it was something big. As he entered the room, many of the other Sternritters were already there, standing around, waiting for this whole thing to start. He faintly heard whispers as he looked around, but no one approached him. His Majesty was sitting on his throne, but Haschwalth was startlingly absent from his side. Uryuu’s stomach started to churn as he stepped up and stood to Yhwach’s other side as his successor. As the last person (Bazz-B) entered the room, Yhwach clapped his hands and everyone turned to him.
“Thank you, everyone, for coming on such short notice. I understand you are nervous about why I called you here when we are so close to our next attack on Soul Society, but I promise you, it is all good news.” Yhwach explained.
Uryuu frowned deeply. The side door opened and Haschwalth slipped inside. He moved to stand next to Yhwach and when the man glanced at him, he nodded sharply. Yhwach’s mouth turned up in a triumphant smile.
“My friends, my children, our last attack on Soul Society went better than I could have hoped. The death of the Captain Commander and the chaos we brought when we stole their bankais went exactly as I had planned, but beyond that, I was able to take something else from their forces. Something that will change the tides in our favor and guarantee our success.” Yhwach stated as the doors in the back opened again.
Uryuu turned his head, as did everyone else. For a moment, the bright light of the hallway kept Uryuu from seeing who was standing there. He squinted a bit, but then the person stepped forward when Yhwach called him forth, Uryuu stared in shock as orange filled the room.
No one spoke, mouths hanging open as the orange haired man walked forward, his white coat fluttering as he moved. His uniform was crispy and clean, but looked so surreal on the other that Uryuu blinked a few times, trying to process it. Ichigo didn’t look at anyone, didn’t even glance at Uryuu as he walked up to the throne, head held high. He stopped at the end of the stairs and, to the continued disbelief of everyone, knelt down to one knee, bowing his head to Yhwach.
“I have taken their trump card and turned him to our side. Please welcome Kurosaki Ichigo into our ranks.” Yhwach’s voice sounded so far away when Ichigo stood up and turned to look around.
Silence filled the room for the longest time. Uryuu’s mind couldn’t process what he was seeing. He subtly pinched himself in the thigh, but nope, he was awake. He was awake in some kind of living nightmare. How else could he explain this? He wanted to ask, wanted to turn to Yhwach and demand an explanation, but someone else did that for him.
“What the FUCK!” someone finally yelled.
Much to the shock of no one, it was Bazz-B who stepped forward and pointed at Ichigo.
“Bazz-B, do you have something you wish to say?” Yhwach asked as he leaned back in his chair.
“Your Majesty, you can’t be serious!” Bazz-B demanded hotly.
His finger was smoking as he pointed at Ichigo. Ichigo just stared at him.
“Oh? And why do you say that?” Yhwach said, almost curiously.
“He’s-You-They-!” Bazz-B seemed to be unable to finish a sentence.
“Your Majesty, he’s not a quincy!” Bazz-B finally spat out.
“Is that so?” Yhwach asked.
“He isn’t! He doesn’t belong here! This must be some kind of trick!” Bazz-B yelled.
“I see. Very well. It seems you need a demonstration. Ichigo.” Yhwach switched from calm to commanding.
Ichigo didn’t even wait. Uryuu stared in shocked horror as Ichigo lifted his arm, a Quincy cross hanging from his wrist when a black blue bow appeared in his hands. A black with red tipped arrow soon formed as well.
“Fire.” Yhwach commanded.
Ichigo released and the arrow sliced through the air, past Bazz-B’s cheek and hit the door before exploding. The whole group stared as the door was destroyed behind Bazz-B. Faintly, Uryuu thought it acted a bit like a Getsuga Tensho, but kept that to himself. As the dust cleared and the last piece fell to the ground, Bazz-B finally turned his head to stare at the hole.
“Does this convince you? Bazz-B?” Yhwach asked, chuckling.
The bow disappeared from Ichigo’s hands and he let them drop to his sides. Bazz-B swallowed and then gave a jerky nod. Yhwach nodded as well.
“As you all can see, Ichigo is a Quincy. A quincy who has been under the control of the shinigami, but no longer. I have saved him and he has agreed to join our cause. He is one of us and I expect him to be treated as such.” Yhwach stated.
He looked around.
“Do I make myself clear?” Yhwach demanded.
“Yes, Your Majesty!” the whole group replied.
“Excellent. You are all dismissed.” Yhwach stated.
As the group filtered out, more than one quincy shot Ichigo an unimpressed or disgusted look, but Ichigo just stared back blankly. Uryuu recognized it as the same look Ichigo would use against thugs or other delinquents trying to get a rise out of him. When the room was finally cleared out, Yhwach stood up.
“Well, that went better than expected.” Yhwach said with a nod.
“Your Majesty.” Uryuu immediately started, but Yhwach just held up a hand.
“You have questions, I understand, but I must ask you to simply trust me.” Yhwach stated.
Uryuu stared at him and then at Ichigo, who seemed to be staring off into space. It was unnerving. Uryuu could see something was wrong, but…
“Very well, Your Majesty. I will follow your lead on this.” Uryuu said finally.
Yhwach smiled and placed a hand on Uryuu’s shoulder.
“Do not worry. Soon, our attack on Soul Society and the Royal Palace will happen. Soon, we will get revenge on the shinigami who destroyed your family and mine. Focus on that.” Yhwach gently patted his shoulder.
Uryuu just nodded. He watched as Yhwach stepped down and walked past Ichigo, Haschwalth following and when Haschwalth walked past, Ichigo turned to follow them without a word. Uryuu swallowed as the three of them disappeared.
“What the hell is happening.” Uryuu mumbled.
—sSs—
“That went well.” Yhwach said as they walked down the hall.
Haschwalth nodded in agreement. Yhwach turned to Ichigo, who stared back blankly.
“You will find Bazz-B is the loudest of all of us. His temper often flares hot, but I am sure our little demonstration has quieted him down, at least for a moment.” Yhwach stated.
Ichigo said nothing.
“Hopefully it is enough to clear the air with the others as well. They will still have questions, of course, but we are on a strict timeline and they will need to focus.” Yhwach continued.
They stop before a door and Ichigo’s brow furrowed.
“You get 30 minutes. Do not make me regret it.” Yhwach said, his voice sharp.
Ichigo’s eyes widened as the door opened to reveal his sisters.
“Ichi-nii!” they cried.
Ichigo rushed into the room and dropped to his knees, hugging them as they hugged him. Yuzu is crying, Karin is on the edge and Ichigo is trying to be strong for all of them.
“Ichigo.” Ichigo flinched before turning his head.
“30 minutes. That’s all.” Yhwach said coldly.
“Yes, Your Majesty.” Ichigo replied, much to the twins' surprise.
Yhwach turned to Haschwalth.
“Haschwalth. Watch them.” Yhwach commanded.
“Yes, Your Majesty.” Haschwalth bowed his head.
Yhwach turned and walked off without another word. Haschwalth stepped inside the room and stood by the now closed door.
“Ichi-nii.” Yuzu’s voice called Ichigo’s attention back to her.
Yuzu cupped his face.
“You look so tired and thin. Are you ok? Are they feeding you? Are you getting enough sleep?” Yuzu asked, her eyes worried.
“I’m ok as long as you are. Did you eat?” Ichigo asked.
“Two meals so far.” Karin confirmed.
Ichigo nodded and hugged them tighter. They hugged him and he picked them up to sit on the bed in the middle of the room. He was thankful to notice the room was full of soft blankets, pillows and a plush carpet. It also seemed to be warmer here than anywhere else. Ichigo felt himself relax with his sisters by his side.
“Ichi-nii, what are we going to…?” Karin whispered.
Ichigo hushed her quickly.
“Nothing. You will do nothing unless it is to survive. I don’t want you to even think about anything else.” Ichigo demanded.
“Ichi-nii.” Yuzu said worriedly.
“Look.” Ichigo said, shooting Haschwalth a worried look.
“You two need to survive. No matter what. Don’t worry about me. I’ll be fine. I need you two to protect and care for each other. Understand?” Ichigo insisted.
The twins looked at him worriedly and he squeezed them.
“Understand?” Ichigo stressed.
“But?” Karin tried, but Ichigo just shook his head.
“No buts. Please Karin, Yuzu, I need you to promise me.” Ichigo begged.
The girls had no choice, but to nod. With their agreement, Ichigo’s body relaxed. They spoke about little things after that. Focusing on stupid stories they remembered or little jokes, just anything to take their minds off the situation at hand. Eventually, Haschwalth spoke.
“Time is up.” Haschwalth called.
“No! It can’t be!” Yuzu begged, hugging Ichigo.
Haschwalth’s eyes narrowed as he stepped forward. Ichigo quickly stood up.
“I’m coming.” Ichigo said.
“Ichi-nii!” Karin tried to pull him back, but he refused.
“It will be ok. I love you both.” Ichiugo whispered.
“Please don’t go.” Yuzu whimpered, trying to pull on his sleeve.
He pressed a kiss to each of their foreheads before he pulled away completely. Haschwalth opened the door and Ichigo walked out, forced to ignore his sisters’ sobs as he left. Haschwalth glanced at them one more time before he stepped outside and closed the door.
What the twins didn’t see was Ichigo, slumped against the wall, his head bowed as his shoulders shook. Haschwalth eyed him before sighing.
“Let’s go.” he demanded.
Ichigo nodded as he reached up to wipe his eyes. He pushed off the wall and followed Haschwalth to his room. Haschwalth opened the door and Ichigo shuffled inside, feeling physically and emotionally exhausted. There was a tray of food on the bed.
“Eat and rest. His Majesty will be here tomorrow morning to continue your training.” Haschwalth said.
“Right.” Ichigo said quietly.
Haschwalth turned and left, the door clicking shut behind him. Ichigo didn’t even check to see if it was locked. He knew it was. Ichigo wandered over to the bed and eyed the food. He didn’t bother thinking too deeply, he just shoved it down his throat and tried not to think too hard about it. When that was done, he put the tray on the floor by the door and crawled into the bed. Exhausted, he fell asleep.
Chapter 7: Soul Society Is Gone
Summary:
Time has run out. Yhwach's last attack is upon them and Ichigo is forced along at Yhwach's pace. So much is happening, too much. Can Ichigo handle it?
Chapter Text
Uryuu was waiting in the training room per His Majesty's order the next morning when Yhwach and Ichigo stepped inside. Uryuu tried to catch Ichigo’s eye, but Ichigo just stared past him. It was really frustrating. How was Uryuu supposed to learn why Ichigo was here if the man kept stonewalling him!
“Ah, Uryuu, excellent. Thank you for joining us this morning.” Yhwach said pleased.
“Of course, Your Majesty.” Uryuu bowed his head.
“Now as you know, Ichigo has none of the Quincy training you received as a child. I am hoping you will be able to help us today with some of those basics.” Yhwach continued.
“Of course. I am happy to.” Uryu agreed.
“Excellent. Let us get started. Ichigo, step up.” Yhwach commanded.
Ichigo walked past Uryuu, once again not looking at him. From there, Uryuu assisted Yhwach with Ichigo’s training, but became more and more uneasy as they interacted. Yhwach was keeping Ichigo on a very short leash, treating Ichigo like he was some sort of trained animal. So far, Ichigo hadn’t spoken, not a word. As his silence stretched on, Uryuu began to wonder why Ichigo was truly here.
Sure, it was clear Ichigo was a Quincy, but everything that was happening went completely against Ichigo's morals. I mean, Yhwach was clearly training Ichigo to kill. Focusing on things like headshots and where to hit someone to cause the most damage. And Ichigo was going along with it! Uryuu just did not understand at all.
“I believe that is enough for this morning.” Yhwach finally said.
Ichigo’s bow disappeared as he reached up to wipe sweat away from his forehead. Yhwach turned to Uryuu.
“Thank you for your assistance today. I will speak to you later. Come, Ichigo.” Yhwach called.
Uryuu watched as Ichigo fell in line, his hands twitching, wanting to reach out and grab him. Maybe even shake him and demand he say something, but Ichigo walked right past him without a word and the two of them disappeared. Uryuu swallowed hard before deciding he had to know what was going on. He turned and left, looking for information.
—sSs—
“I am pleased you were able to listen to my instructions, Ichigo. I was a bit concerned, but it seems you can listen to orders when given the right push.” Yhwach said as they walked.
Ichigo bit the inside of his cheek to keep his mouth shut. It was a bloody mess at this point with how often he had bitten it during training. But Yhwach’s orders from this morning echoed in his ears.
“If you speak even a word in front of Uryuu during training, your sisters will pay for each syllable. Think about your words carefully.”
Ichigo wasn’t about to risk his sisters, so he kept his mouth shut, despite how much it gutted him to do so. Yhwach paused in front of his door and eyed Ichigo thoughtfully.
“We have less than a week before our next attack on Soul Society. I suggest you train as hard as you can before then. Do you understand?” Yhwach demanded.
“Yes, Your Majesty.” Ichigo replied.
Yhwach placed a hand on Ichigo’s shoulder, making him freeze.
“Once it is all over, your sisters will be set free. Just focus on that and it will be over before you know it.” Yhwach said encouragingly.
Ichigo just nodded.
“Now, get some rest. You will need it.” Yhwach patted him on the shoulder before directing him inside the room.
—sSs—
The next morning, instead of the training room, Ichigo found himself directed into an office by Haschwalth. It was… oddly colorful? There were various books on the shelves around them, a large dark wood desk with a matching chair in front of a large window that showed the outside world. There was a large fireplace on the other wall, the fire inside crackling merrily with two large armchairs before it with a rug.
Ichigo looked around, unsure of why he was here. He didn’t think this would be a good place for training. Yhwach entered from another door and he held a weird item in his hand. It looked like a metal Quincy Cross on a long pole. Ichigo eyed it with uncertainty, especially when he placed it into the fire and it started to heat up. Ichigo had a sinking feeling about why it was here.
“Good morning, Ichigo. I hope you slept well.” Yhwach said as he sat in one of the armchairs.
“I did. Thank you for asking, Your Majesty.” Ichigo said, trying to be polite.
Yet his eyes never left the large piece of metal as it turned red in the fireplace.
“Good, good. I’m pleased by your progress so far. For someone who only just started with your Quincy abilities, you are a natural. I am sure your mother would have been very proud of that fact.” Yhwach said before reaching over to turn the metal pole.
Ichigo swallowed, both at the comment and at Yhwach’s actions.
“Thank you, Your Majesty. That is very kind of you… if I may ask, what is that for?” Ichigo whispered.
Yhwach hummed.
“Your sister Yuzu has been absolutely wonderful. So far, Haschwalth has told me that she has been considerate, thoughtful and polite with her words and actions. Karin… however.” Yhwach said calmly.
Ichigo felt something in his stomach drop.
“Has she done something wrong?” Ichigo asked.
“Her attitude leaves much to be desired. I fear she believes I am bluffing when I say her words have consequences. It seems that is something you both share.” Yhwach replied.
Yhwach stood up and Ichigo took a step back, only to bump into Haschwalth, blocking the door.
“Remove your jacket.” Yhwach commanded.
Ichigo’s face paled as he grabbed the metal pole from the fire, the Cross at the end red hot.
“Wait…” Ichigo whispered.
Yhwach’s eyes narrowed.
“I will not ask again. Remove your jacket, Ichigo.” Yhwach said coldly.
Ichigo stared at him and then with shaking hands, removed his jacket. Haschwalth took it from him, folding it over his arm.The room was warm, thankfully, but Ichigo was trembling like he was in the middle of a snowstorm. He wasn’t stupid, he knew what red hot metal did to human flesh.
“Lean against the wall.” Yhwach said next.
Ichigo stared at him, feeling his rage at the injustice of it all boiling up. His fists clenched tightly. He wanted to fight, to rant and rave and demand why he had to endure such a thing. But, Yhwach’s next words froze that rage in his veins.
“It is either you or young Yuzu, Ichigo. Would you rather I use this on your little sister? Make your choice quickly now, my patience is running thin.” Yhwach asked, holding the Cross up for him to look at.
The idea that Yhwach would use such a thing on Yuzu made him ill and the fact that it would be Ichigo’s fault…? Ichigo didn’t say another word. He turned and pressed his hands against the wall.
“I do not wish to do this to you, but actions have consequences. Remember that.” Yhwach said before the metal was forced against his skin.
Ichigo shrieked, his hands tightening into fists as he bowed his head. He tried not to move, but his body tried to pull away from pain, so Yhwach just followed him until there was nowhere else to go. The shizzle of flesh burning and the smell was enough to make him gag. From the corner of his eye, he noticed Haschwalth was looking away, pointedly at the floor. A part of Ichigo wanted to snap at him for being a coward, to demand that he watch what was happening, but Ichigo didn’t have the energy. The metal was removed and Ichigo’s knees gave out as he crumbled to the floor.
“How it pains me to do this to you, my son. Especially when you have come so far, but as I said, my words are not to be taken lightly.” Yhwach said.
Ichigo turned his head to watch as Yhwach placed the metal back into the fire.
“Haschwalth will take you back to your room. You will find ointment there for your wound. I suggest using it and wrapping your wound before it gets infected.” Yhwach sat back into his armchair.
Sensing the dismissal for what it was, Ichigo slowly got to his feet before following Haschwalth out the door. Stumbling down the hall, Haschwalth took him back to his room. Sure enough, there was a jar sitting on the bed with bandages. Haschwalth hung his jacket up in the closet before turning to him.
“Let us begin.” Haschwalth said calmly.
Ichigo glanced at him.
“I can do it myself.” Ichigo said coldly.
Haschwalth’s eyes narrowed as he stepped forward.
“Do not be a fool. You cannot reach it yourself.” Haschwalth replied.
Ichigo swallowed hard. He knew that was true, but he really didn’t want this man touching him, not when he was so clearly connected to Yhwach, but Ichigo also wasn’t stupid enough to let a wound like this get infected.
“Fine.” Ichigo whispered.
Haschwalth nodded and grabbed the jar. He opened it and put some of it on his fingers as Ichigo grabbed his pillow to bite into as he braced himself. At the first touch, Ichigo’s cry was muffled by the pillow as he gripped the sheets, almost tearing them. Haschwalth was efficient and quick. When he was done, he wiped his hand on the sheets before grabbing the bandages.
“Straighten up.” Haschwalth demanded.
Ichigo forced himself up. Lifting his arms, Ichigo trembled as Haschwalth wrapped his wound. When it was done, Haschwalth stepped back, nodded to Ichigo and left. The second the door shut behind him, Ichigo collapsed to the ground, sobbing in agony.
—sSs—
The next few days, Yhwach pushed Ichigo to the brink of exhaustion and insanity. Thankfully, his healing factor had kicked in to heal the wound, but it had most certainly scarred. Sometimes, it would pull and ache, but Ichigo had bigger problems than that. Yhwach did not allow for Ichigo to see his sisters, dangling them over his head like a carrot while beating him down with nonstop training. Emotionally, mentally, physically, Ichigo endured, but it was hard. Slowly, he could feel himself breaking down, piece by piece. By the time the day came for the second attack, Ichigo could barely pay attention as Yhwach and Haschwalth came to get him.
“I have decided to let you see the girls before we go. I want you to remember why you are doing all of this.” Yhwach said when they stopped in front of the door again.
Ichigo nodded, his eyes grateful.
“Thank you, Your Majesty.” Ichigo whispered.
“An hour. That is all we have time for. I suggest you make the most of it.” Yhwach stated.
The door opened and Ichigo stepped inside.
“Ichi-nii!” the girls rushed to him and he knelt down to hug them.
He hugged them tightly, feeling the tears in his eyes. Everything he endured, it was all for this. Everything he suffered, it was all for them. That’s what he kept repeating in his mind.
“One hour.” Yhwach said again before the door closed.
“One hour! We haven’t seen him in days, you-!” Karin started yelling, but Ichigo quickly covered her mouth.
“Karin, please.” he said tiredly.
Yuzu whimpered as she looked him over.
“Ichi-nii.” she whispered.
Ichigo smiled at her.
“I know, Yuzu. I know.” he replied.
Ichigo lifted them up and they sat on the bed again. The twins clung to him and he clung to them. He was so tired. He wanted to just sleep. Just hold his sisters and sleep, but he couldn’t.
“Karin, Yuzu. We are leaving soon. When I get back, it will all be over. It will be done.” Ichigo told them.
Karin and Yuzu shared a worried look.
“But… what if you don’t come back?” Karin asked.
Ichigo just smiled at her as he placed a hand on her head.
“Then it will be on you to take care of yourselves ok? Yhwach swore to me that he would set you free no matter what happens to me.” Ichigo stated.
“But what about you! Ichi-nii, you-” Karin tried to start, but Ichigo just stopped her.
“Karin, please! Just drop it!” Ichigo begged.
The twins were shaken by how weak Ichigo seemed. He sighed and covered his eyes with his arm, trembling.
“I don’t know what is going to happen, but… I know I’m going to have to…" Ichigo choked and the twins quickly hugged him.
Ichigo hugged them as the tears ran down the sides of his face.
“I just… need you two to be safe. That is the only thing keeping me going. So please, just stay safe until then, ok?” Ichigo begged.
“We will.” Yuzu agreed.
The siblings sat in silence, clinging to each other. Eventually, Ichigo spoke.
“When you two were little, I used to sneak into your nursery. I would hold you both just like this. Mom would always come in and scold me, but she would never try to stop me or remove me.” Ichigo said softly.
“I remember that.” Yuzu whispered as Karin nodded.
A knock came to the door. The hour was up. Ichigo sat up slowly and looked at them. He pressed a kiss to each of their heads with a little prayer for safety. That if he didn’t make it out, at least they would. The twins didn’t try to stop him, instead they both pressed a kiss to each of his cheeks.
“I love you.” Ichigo said.
“We love you too, Ichi-nii.” they replied.
As Ichigo stepped into the hallway, he heard them both sobbing and closed his eyes before the closed door muffled their cries.
“Let us go.” Yhwach demanded.
“Yes, Your Majesty.” Ichigo muttered.
—sSs—
Soul Society was gone. Standing at the center of it all, Ichigo looked around, his hand gripping his cross and his hoodie pulled up, per His Majesty’s order, yet Ichigo couldn’t stop the panic in his chest or the way the world felt off kilter. Soul Society was gone, replaced by Yhwach’s own world. Ichigo had never been told this was a part of the plan, but now, it made sense. It made sense how they had stormed the Seireitei the first time and why Yhwach had seemed so confident it would work again.
As Yhwach asked Uryuu to recite the Kaiser Gesang, Ichigo found himself focusing on what he had been told to do, the orders he had been given. Ichigo was to stay by His Majesty’s side and keep out of the way. According to him, Ichigo was to stay hidden until Yhwach needed him or he was told otherwise. Until then, he was not to engage with anyone or anything. Ichigo just prayed, as futile as it probably was, that he wouldn’t have to fight anyone he cared about if it came down to it.
As they watched, lights started to appear. Ichigo swallowed as Yhwach seemed to be delighted by their appearance in the dark sky. As each moment passed, Ichigo felt despair start to pool inside of him. People were dying all around him, people he had once called allies or even friends. He could hear their agony and it killed him. Knowing that he was helping this man destroy lives felt like the most vile betrayal. As if sensing his changing mood, Yhwach turned to him.
“Remember why you are doing this, Ichigo.” Yhwach stated simply.
That snapped Ichigo out of his thoughts rather forcefully. Uryuu looked between them, confused, but Ichigo just swallowed and nodded, keeping his eyes down. As time passed, Ichigo struggled as he felt people die one by one. The feeling was like a physical blow each and every time. Ichigo had no choice, but to shut his mind down. It was the only way to save himself and stay just a little bit sane. With each action, each death, each piece in place, Yhwach got closer and closer to the throne and the dread in Ichigo’s stomach got worse.
“It is time.” Yhwach finally said.
Ichigo blinked back to consciousness. There was a bright light in the sky above and Ichigo wondered when that had gotten there. How long had he been hiding in his own mind? He wasn’t sure and was scared to ask.
“Let us go.” Yhwach demanded.
“Yes, Your Majesty.” the three men said.
Landing in the Soul King’s Palace, they came face to face with the Royal Guards. Ichigo wasn’t so sure what was so Royal about them. They fall just as easily as the shinigami did. And then they found Ichibei. The three of them stayed on the sidelines as Yhwach approached the man.
“Ah, I was wondering when you all would get here. I will admit, it took longer than I expected.” Ichibei stated, but his eyes stayed firmly on Yhwach.
“Are you going to step aside, Ichibei? Allow me to rightfully claim my place?” Yhwach asked, though it came out as more of a command.
Ichibei’s eyes flickered to Ichigo and for a moment, he got the feeling the man was sorrowful. Ichigo just stared back, blankly.
“Never.” was Ichibei’s reply.
The fighting after that was beyond anything Ichigo had seen before. Beyond what he thought was possible. Yet, it ended all the same. Ichibei was left a smear on the ground. The last hope Ichigo had died right then and there. If the Head of the Royal Guards couldn’t stop him, then no one could.
“And your turn is next… Soul King.” Yhwach stated, as if it was a fact.
Yhwach led the way as they headed for the throne room of the Soul King. With each step, Ichigo could faintly hear someone calling him. His eyes darted around, confused and uncertain. It begged him to call his name, but Ichigo didn't understand. Who’s name? And why him? As they continued on, Ichigo muttered a small, quiet name under his breath. If anyone heard him say it, they do not say anything.
“We have arrived.” Yhwach stated.
Stepping into the room, Ichigo stared, but not in awe.
“Is that…?” he heard Uryuu ask.
“Yes. The Soul King… my father.” Yhwach replied.
The Soul King, this mighty being that Ichigo had heard stories about, was little more than a body in a rock. For a moment, it was almost laughable, but no one was laughing and Ichigo had to focus. Yhwach, without a second thought, plunged his blade into the dead center of the Soul King’s chest. Ichigo expected something, anything really, but nothing happened. He was confused, turning to look at Uryuu, who glanced at him just as puzzled.
“Ichigo. Come.” Yhwach demanded.
Ichigo swallowed, but followed his command. Stepping up to stand next to the other man, he glanced at Yhwach. Yhwach glanced back and placed a hand on his shoulder. Ichigo gasped when he suddenly felt his shinigami/hollow powers return.
“Finish him.” Yhwach demanded.
Ichigo stumbled a bit, unstable after so long without his full power. He almost wanted to cry.
“King! What the fuck are you doing!” Hollow roared, voice furious.
“Ichigo, please! Don’t do this!” Tensa begged.
Ichigo looked at the rock again and then the sword sticking out of it. He had no choice. This was it. With a slightly trembling hand, he grabbed the blade and felt it pulse. Ichigo focused on his own power and pushed it into the blade in his hand.
“KING STOP!” Hollow screeched.
“ICHIGO!” Tensa begged.
“Enough, the both of you. It must be done.” Old Man replied.
“YOU FUCKING TRAITOR!” Hollow roared.
Ichigo blocked all three of them out. He had to. The blade started to take the shape of Zangetsu and the second it stopped, Ichigo twisted it and ripped it across. The bottom half of the Soul King fell to the floor and that was it. Ichigo stared blankly, static in his ears before Yhwach squeezed his shoulder gently.
“Very good, Ichigo. You have done well.” Yhwach said before pulling away.
The second he did, the silence returned. Hollow, Tensa, Old Man were all gone and it took everything in Ichigo not to scream. He choked it down, trembling. He had dealt with it once, he could do it again. For them.
“Ichigo…?” a soft voice made Ichigo’s head snap up.
Standing on the edge of the throne room were Orihime, Chad, Yoruichi and Ganju, all staring in shock. The world around them began to shake violently and Ichigo knew everything was collapsing.
“Well now, it seems we have visitors.” Yhwach said, almost nonchalantly.
“Are you… Kurosaki-kun?” Orihime asked, stepping forward.
Ichigo was going to be sick. What were they doing here! Had Soul Society really sent children to fix their fucking problems! It seemed like it. Then again, wasn’t that Soul Society in a nutshell?
“There’s no way, right? It can’t be!” Ganju insisted.
Yoruichi’s eyes narrowed.
“Answer me! Are you Kurosaki-kun!” Orihime screamed.
Ichigo did not answer. The shaking was getting worse. Ichigo wondered if the whole place was going to collapse when a shadowy figure suddenly wrapped around the Soul King. Ichigo stumbled away, confused by what he was seeing. Yhwach seemed to know what it was though and it seemed to enrage him. Orihime attempted to fix the Soul King, but it didn’t work. Yoruichi put up a barrier and for a moment, Ichigo actually thought, maybe there was hope. Then Uryuu called his bow and shot Yoruichi in the shoulder.
Ichigo could do nothing as his friends fell over the side. A part of him wanted to follow after them, to make sure that they were safe, but Uryuu grabbed the end of his coat and he stopped. As the room filled with Sternritters, Ichigo closed his eyes. He didn’t want to see this. Wasn’t his part over? Would his sisters be freed now? Even as the world stopped shaking, Ichigo’s hands didn’t.
—sSs—
“You swear it was him?” Urahara demanded.
Yoruichi huffed.
“I can’t swear anything, but… Yhwach called him Ichigo and last I checked, there was only one guy named that on either side.” Yoruichi replied coldly.
Urahara stared at her before looking at the floor.
“So… the worst possible scenario happened.” Urahara whispered.
“So it seems.” she agreed.
Urahara took in a shaking breath.
“What is the plan?” Yoruichi asked.
“Well, to finish the gate, get everyone up there and…” Urahara was cut off.
“That is not what I was asking about and you know it!” Yoruichi snapped.
Urahara paused.
“Kisuke… if Ichigo is a threat, he needs to be-” this time, she was cut off.
“Yoruichi.” Urahara said.
Yoruichi paused, frowning.
“If Kurosaki-san is working for Yhwach, then our only hope is that there is some kind of soul or heart left inside him we can use. If not, I’m sorry, but I do not have a plan to take him out.” Urahara replied.
Yoruichi stared at him before sighing.
“We are really up shits creek without a paddle, huh?” she demanded.
“In so many words, yes.” Urahara agreed.
Chapter 8: The Betrayal
Summary:
The Soul King's power is falling into Yhwach's hand bit by bit. Soon, the worlds will be his to do with as he pleases. That means, unfortunately, Ichigo is no longer useful to his plans.
Chapter Text
The next several hours were a blur. So much was happening. Yhwach was absorbing the Soul King’s power, first the hand, then other pieces, before he started releasing little creatures. Ichigo stayed out of their path, not sure what to make of them. Sure, Haschwalth seemed to understand and tried to explain it to them, but he was also directly connected to Yhwach himself, so that didn’t make Ichigo feel that much better. Instead, watching as Yhwach’s plan came together, Ichigo wondered if there would even be anything left. As the world around him changed into whatever Yhwach wanted, Ichigo could do nothing. His helplessness killed him.
When Haschwalth confirmed the shinigami Captains along with others had arrived, Ichigo’s heart started to pound. As Yhwach sent the others away, Ichigo waited for his orders, but was startled when he was not sent. He could see the others glancing at him, trying to understand why, but Ichigo didn’t get it either, so he stayed quiet. He knew Yhwach must just be waiting for the right movement to use him
“My son. Come here.” Yhwach waved to Ichigo, who swallowed and moved closer.
It was then he noticed the room was empty. Only he and Yhwach were left, even Haschwalth and Uryuu were gone. Ichigo had a sinking feeling about this.
“Kneel.” Yhwach demanded when Ichigo stopped before his throne.
Letting out a breath, he knelt.
“I can sense your unease. What troubles you?” Yhwach asked as Ichigo stiffened in fear.
“No unease, Your Majesty. Just overwhelmed.” Ichigo replied, lying.
Yhwach chuckled.
“Come now, there is no reason to lie. It is just you and I now. We can talk freely.” Yhwach stated.
That really didn’t make Ichigo feel any better if he was going to be honest. It had just been him and Yhwach when Yhwach had brutally whipped him. When was that again? Days ago? Ichigo had lost track of time somewhere along the line. Coming back to the present, Ichigo just kept his eyes lowered.
“Tell me what is on your mind.” Yhwach demanded.
“I am just concerned about my sisters. I hope they aren’t afraid.” Ichigo replied evenly.
Yhwach sat with that a moment and Ichigo shifted nervously before he finally spoke.
“You have nothing to fear. They are safe where they are now. I made sure their room wasn’t affected when I changed the palace.” Yhwach stated.
Ichigo forced his shoulders to relax. Right. He had to believe that. He had to believe his sisters were safe. That when it was all said and done, that they would be reunited and everything would be fine.
“Thank you for your reassurance, Your Majesty.” Ichigo muttered.
Yhwach chuckled again.
“No need to apologize. You are their older brother. Worrying about them is part of your DNA. But I swore to you, did I not? They would be set free.” Yhwach stated.
Ichigo nodded again. Yhwach sighed and leaned on his fist.
“It seems we will be having company shortly. Return to your post.” he said boredly.
Ichigo got up and returned to Yhwach’s side. Sure enough, Liltotteo ad Giselle appeared. They were furious, talking about being left behind, left for dead and their power stolen. Yhwach just sighed and shook his head as he stood up.
“Some children think they have a right to talk back. Such a shame.” Yhwach said.
Ichigo closed his eyes, not wishing to watch, but he could still hear everything. As the last gasp escaped Liltotteo, Ichigo opened his eyes again.
“I will take my rest now, Ichigo. Should anyone else break in, I expect you to handle them. Understand?” Yhwach demanded.
Ichigo paused and then swallowed.
“Yes, Your Majesty.” Ichigo replied as Yhwach settled in his chair.
His eyes closed and Ichigo, for one moment, considered just going for his throat. Just killing him outright, but if Ichigo failed? Ichigo couldn’t even imagine it. So he didn’t. As he stood guard, he could feel all the reiatsu of his friends and allies below.
Byakuya, Toshiro, Renji, Rukia, Kenpachi, each one Ichigo could feel. All of them fighting, and some of them dying. Ichigo wanted to scream, to curse and yell, but he stayed silent. All he could do was remember what this was all for.
—sSs—
Uryuu was nervous. Admittedly, his idea to take Yhwach down from the inside had seemed risky to start with. Hell, even suicidal, but he had believed if he failed, that Kurosaki would take up the cause next. Now, that plan seemed to be in the gutter too. Uryuu had been unable to find out what Yhwach had done to Kurosaki to make him… like this, but whatever it was… it was big.
Uryuu had tried to ignore it, had tried to see past it, but Kurosaki… was scared of Yhwach. Terrified even. Whenever the man was close, Kurosaki would freeze like a deer in headlights. It was a kind of fear he never expected from a man like Kurosaki, who had always stood so tall and strong no matter who he went up against. But he guessed even Kurosaki had a limit. A breaking point and Yhwach had found it.
Looking down at Haschwalth, watching as the man slowly died, he let out a breath. One piece down, one more to go. He turned to run when an arrow landed at his feet. The final piece that would help destroy Yhwach was in his hands. Let’s hope he could use it.
—sSs—
“It seems… one of my children has decided to go against me.” Yhwach said suddenly, making Ichigo jump.
He stood from his throne and Ichigo felt those eyes on him in a heartbeat.
“Your friend, my successor, Uryuu, has turned his blade on Haschwalth and has killed him.” Yhwach said coldly.
Ichigo’s heart froze in his chest. What? Uryuu had…?
“How… unfortunate.” Yhwach muttered.
Ichigo swallowed.
“While I am not truly shocked, it does hurt my heart to see my sons fighting each other. Killing each other. Spilling Quincy blood, but that is what happens in war. Alas, I believe it is time to finish this.” Yhwach stated as he started towards him.
Ichigo stared at him as he came closer and closer. Unsure of what was happening, but knowing it couldn’t be anything good.
“Ichigo! Run!” Old Man suddenly yelled.
Ichigo stumbled backwards, just barely moving out of the other man’s reach.
“What are you doing!” Ichigo demanded.
Yhwach turned to him, his eyes cold.
“I am retrieving the power I once gave you. It is time for me to reclaim all the power I had given so that I may use it to remake the worlds. Come now, Ichigo.” Yhwach held out his hand, as if expecting Ichigo to go willingly.
Ichigo didn’t know what to do. Ichigo stared at his hand, trying to understand when the doors at the end of the room burst open. Ichigo and Yhwach both turned.
“We made it!” Renji said, Rukia and Orihime right behind him.
Ichigo wanted to scream. What were they doing here! And right behind them were Byakuya and Toshiro (though why did he look older? Something to puzzle about later, because he sure as hell did not have the time right now).
“I see. The roaches have infected the palace. How unfortunate.” Yhwach said coldly.
“The only roach I see here is you!” Renji yelled.
Whether Renji actually thought that had been cool to say or not, Ichigo had no idea because Yhwach just chuckled before letting out a barking laugh.
“And what would a shinigami know? All you are capable of doing is killing innocent people who believe differently than you. I am not concerned about you.” Yhwach replied.
“It does not matter. We will stop you here.” Byakuya stated, hand on his blade.
“Stop me? You? And how do you plan on doing that?” Yhwach asked, almost mockingly.
“Any way we can!” Rukia replied, stepping forward.
“I see. But are you going to be able to stop me… with him in your way?” Yhwach reached up and ripped Ichigo’s hood off. All of them froze, mouths dropping open in shock.
“Kurosaki?” Toshiro whispered, shocked.
Byakuya’s eyes just narrowed.
“Ichigo? What… are you doing here? And why… WHY ARE YOU WEARING HIS UNIFORM?!” Renji yelled, his face flushing as red as his hair.
Ichigo stared, unable to even speak or explain. He could see it in their eyes, the hurt, the betrayal, the rage. Ichigo wanted to hide, maybe pull his hood back up, but then Yhwach spoke again.
“Ichigo is here, wearing my uniform, because that is where he belongs. Where he has always belonged. You shinigami believed he was one of you, but in reality, he was always one of mine.” Yhwach stated.
Rukia locked eyes with Ichigo, trying to understand, trying to read between the lines, but Ichigo looked away. He couldn’t keep her gaze.
“A quincy?” Renji whispered.
“How?” Toshiro demanded.
“My mother. She was a Quincy.” Ichigo mumbled.
Rukia looked startled, but then Orihime stepped forward. Her head was held high, her fists clenched and her eyes determined. She looked so strong, so powerful. She had grown so much and Ichigo felt pride in her growth, but also sorrow. He hoped her kindness had not been the price for this new strength.
“I refuse.” she stated.
“You refuse what, my dear?” Yhwach asked, tilting his head to the side.
“I refuse to believe Kurosaki-kun chose to betray us. His friends and family. I refuse to believe it!” Orihime insisted.
Ichigo stared at her, startled. Orihime believed in him? Believed he wouldn’t…?
“Is that so? Then perhaps a demonstration is in order. Ichigo. Shall we show them what you’ve learned?” Ichigo stiffened, static filling his ears.
“Ichigo! You don’t have to do anything he says!” Rukia tried, but Ichigo just swallowed.
He held out his hands, the Quincy cross hanging from his wrist before his bow appeared, an arrow already at the ready. The sight of it made everyone nervous. Rukia shifted slightly, trying to figure out what he was going to do.
“Fire.” Yhwach commanded.
Ichigo didn’t think about it, he just let go. The arrow sailed across the room. Byakuya grabbed Orihime and Toshiro, Renji grabbed Rukia and they dove out of the way. It hit the doors and exploded, destroying their only way out. Yhwach let out a laugh and held out his hands.
“Do you see, young lady? Ichigo joined me to help me claim the Soul King’s throne! Why, it was by his hand that the Soul King was killed! Isn’t that right, Ichigo?” Yhwach demanded.
All eyes were on him and Ichigo nodded.
“Yes, Your Majesty.” Ichigo said quietly, but the words carried across the room.
Orihime covered her mouth with her hand, shocked. Renji got to his feet, teeth bared.
“You bastard! Was it all a lie then! Everything? Everything we did together! All the training! All the time we spent together?!” Renji yelled.
Ichigo stared at him, feeling sorrow in his chest.
“ANSWER ME!” Renji yelled as he called upon his shikai.
“Kurosaki-kun, please! This can’t be true!” Orihime begged, her eyes wet.
“Ichigo, say something!” Rukia demanded.
Byakuya and Toshiro said nothing. They got to their feet and called their shikai, eyes narrowed. Ichigo’s eyes darted between Renji, Toshiro and Byakuya, wondering who would attack first. Ichigo’s bow was still activated, an arrow at the ready. He didn’t want to fight them and was pretty sure he would lose since he barely had any training fighting as a bow user, but before he could make a plan, Yhwach spoke again.
“How awful. Once allies now enemies, but my time is up. So I apologize, but this is it.” Yhwach’s hand shot out and grabbed the back of Ichigo’s head.
Almost immediately, Ichigo let out a scream as his knees hit the floor. His bow disappeared as he reached up to grab Yhwach’s hand, but he had no energy to rip it out of his hair.
“ICHIGO!/KUROSAKI-KUN!” filled the air as Ichigo felt his Blut Vein activate.
“I’m so sorry, my son, but as I told you, I need this power back that I had given you.” Yhwach said.
Ichigo couldn’t hear it over the sounds of his own screaming. Faintly, he felt Old Man disappearing and though he tried to cling to the other, it was like sand through his fingers. One minute he was there and then he was gone. Ichigo gasped as Yhwach released him and he collapsed to the floor. His breathing was shallow, barely there and he could hear the others yelling. The sound of battle was happening above and around him, but he couldn’t even think straight. Everything hurt. Everything hurt so fucking much and he was so cold.
“Kurosaki-kun!” Orihime’s shield covered him, but there was nothing she could do.
Her ability couldn’t return Old Man or his Quincy powers. But with Old Man gone, something else started to grow.
“KING!” Hollow was screeching, his hollow energy flooding his system.
“ICHIGO!” Tensa yelled, his shinigami energy following the hollow.
“You’re back.” Ichigo whispered.
It was strange because he could feel tears in his eyes, but they felt so warm on his face. Why was he so cold?
“Kurosaki-kun. Please. Please wake up!” Orihime’s begging voice caught his attention.
He slowly lifted his head to see the room in ruins and the shinigami badly injured. Byakuya, Toshiro, Renji and Rukia were all on the ground, bloodied and Yhwach was looking at him.
“Still alive? Good. I was worried you wouldn’t be able to handle it, but I suppose you will always be a survivor above all else.” Yhwach stated.
“You monster.” Orihime hissed.
Yhwach tutted lightly as a portal opened behind him.
“I am only what this world has made me. I never asked to be this way, but being the child of the Soul King was never a walk in the park. But that all changes now. I will return to Soul Society and start these worlds anew.” Yhwach stated.
“And what will happen to those who already exist?” Byakuya demanded, attempting to get up.
Yhwach shrugged, almost nonchalant.
“People die for change all the time. This is just a bit more… extreme. Farewell.” Yhwach turned and walked away, entering the portal.
The second Yhwach was gone, Ichigo found his whole body start to tremble. He bowed his head, trying to keep from crying. How could this happen? How had he let this happen?
“We have to follow him.” Renji said, stumbling to his feet.
“And do what, Abari?” Toshiro huffed.
“We have to do something! If he does what he’s talking about, Soul Society will be-!” Renji was cut off when someone new spoke.
“Oh my! Yes, yes, this is quite the mess, isn’t it?” Ichibei asked.
“Ichibei!” the shinigami yelled, shocked.
“Ah, hello everyone! My apologies for not being here earlier, but there was much I had to do you, see!” Ichibei chuckled.
Ichigo’s brow furled. The Royal Guard Yhwach had killed was still alive? How… why? Ichigo didn’t understand and then, he did.
“Wait…” Ichigo mumbled.
Ichibei turned to him and smiled.
“Ah, nice to finally meet you, Kurosaki Ichigo! And thank you for your help earlier! My! I was in quite the pickle!” Ichibei said brightly.
“Help?” Orihime asked, looking between them.
“Well yes! Right after Yhwach killed me, he saved me from certain death by saying my name!” Ichibei nodded.
“Oh… you’re welcome?” Ichigo mumbled, confused.
Ichigo still had no idea what was going on, but he was mentally too tired to fight it anymore.
“I have to admit, you surprised me! That you did!” Ichibei nodded.
Ichigo stared at him blankly.
“I… did?” Ichigo asked.
“Yes and still are! I mean…” Ichibei’s smile got sharper.
“You are still holding on to that piece of the Soul King, aren’t you?” Ichibei asked.
Ichigo’s eyes widened as did everyone else’s.
“Kurosaki-kun?” Orihime asked.
Ichigo gritted his teeth as he pushed himself up. Kneeling, Ichigo reached into his sleeve and pulled out a piece of the Soul King’s rock.
“I… I didn’t know what I was doing. I just knew… I had to keep a piece of him away from Yhwach.” Ichigo admitted.
“But of course! Without that piece, Yhwach’s power is incomplete!” Ichibei said brightly.
“Wait… does that mean…?” Rukia looked between Ichibei and Ichigo, confused.
“That’s right! Kurosaki Ichigo, even while working for Yhwach, was subconsciously working against him the whole time! And Yhwach had no idea!” Ichibei laughed jovially.
Everyone turned to Ichigo, who was looking at the rock with a furled brow.
“We have questions, but those will need to wait. Yhwach has to be stopped.” Byakuya stated, pushing himself to his feet.
“And he will be! Mind you, I wish we had a chance to really train you, but we are on quite a time limit, so we will have to rush through it.” Ichibei said, turning to Ichigo.
“What?” Ichigo asked.
Ichibei walked over to him and knelt down. Eye to eye, Ichibei’s smile died as he knelt before Ichigo.
“Kurosaki Ichigo, you were chosen as a Soul King candidate years ago. For every heroic action, for every choice you made to protect others, for every moment you chose to live up to the name you were given, you inched closer and closer to the throne. Had everything gone as it was supposed to and Yhwach not interfered, you would have been placed under my mentorship to finish your Soul King training. But that is a discussion for another time. Right now is a time for action.” Ichibei said seriously.
Ichigo’s eyes widened.
“Yhwach will destroy everything. All of those people you protected will be wiped out. I am not sure what Yhwach promised you, but it is all a lie.” Ichibei said seriously.
“But…?” Ichigo was cut off when Ichibei shook his head.
“All a lie. I swear to you.” Ichibei stated seriously.
At those words, Ichigo’s rage overcame his helplessness and despair. Ichigo’s eyes flashed and he gripped the stone in his hand.
“Now, are you really going to let him get away with that?” Ichibei demanded.
“Orihime?” Ichigo called.
“Huh? Ah yes?” she asked.
“I need you to stay here and heal whoever you can, ok?” Ichigo demanded as he got to his feet.
“Kurosaki-kun?” Orihime called.
Ichigo looked at the rock in his hand before he shoved that into his pocket. Closing his eyes, he called upon his returned power.
“About damn time!” Hollow snarled.
“I know. I’m sorry. About everything. Just please, one last time?” Ichigo begged.
“Our power is your power, Ichigo. You don’t even have to ask.” Tensa replied.
“Yeah, let’s kick his ass!” Hollow yelled.
“Thank you… Zangetsu.” Ichigo whispered.
His power swelled, swirled and the whole room lit up, making everyone cover their eyes. When it was done, Ichigo stood there, sword in hand.
“Ahhh, so you did take the power with you! Very good!” Ichibei said, nodding.
Ichigo stared at Zangetsu and saw Tensa/Hollow staring back.
“Let’s go.” Ichigo muttered.
Byakuya stepped forward.
“You already betrayed us once. Why would we allow you to do this?” Byakuya demanded.
Ichigo locked eyes with him.
“Because if we kill each other, you lose nothing.” Ichigo replied.
“Don’t say that!” Rukia yelled.
Ichigo turned to her and shot her a sad smile.
“It’s the truth. Yhwach is insanely powerful. It is going to take everything I have and more to take him out. I am… probably not going to make it out alive.” Ichigo stated.
Silence met his declaration. No one wanted to agree with him, but it was also very true. Ichigo glanced around.
“All I ask is when this is all over and if I don’t make it… take care of each other, yeah?” Ichigo said.
A few people nodded and then Ichigo shot forward. He darted into the portal, chasing after Yhwach. Renji glanced around before charging after him. He was not about to be left behind.
“Can we rely on him?” Toshiro asked.
“We don’t have much of a choice.” Byakuya admitted.
“Do not despair. He was made for this.” Ichibei said, staring into the portal with serious eyes.
Toshiro and Byakuya shared a look, uncertain. Orihime clasped her hands together in prayer.
“Please, Kurosaki-kun!”
Chapter 9: The Hero's Tragic Loss
Summary:
Yhwach finally meets his maker. However, in the end, Ichigo is the one who is truly destroyed.
(Please read author's note at top of page!)
Notes:
Hello everyone! I want to thank you all for your love on this ff. It's a little darker than I usually write, but I think it captures what I consider a very real portrayal of what would have happened if Yhwach got his hands on Ichigo from the beginning.
Now, here I must get serious. TRIGGER WARNING! This chapter will HEAVILY get into suicide and a serious suicide attempt. I ask that anyone struggling with their mental health take this warning seriously. Thank you and I hope you enjoy!
Chapter Text
Aizen had to admit, this fight was not going in his favor. He had hoped having the element of surprise would work out, but Yhwach’s Almighty was more terrifying than he could have assumed. The ability to change the future? That seemed a bit unfair to him.
“Are you ready to give up, Aizen Sosuke?” Yhwach asked.
Aizen was about to answer when Yhwach was attacked from behind. Yhwach managed to get out of the way in time and Ichigo appeared.
“Ah, better late than never I suppose.” Aizen muttered.
“Aizen? What the fuck are you doing here?” Ichigo demanded, sounding confused and a bit wary.
“I have no interest in seeing this world end like this…” Aizen paused, looking at him up and down.
“What…” Aizen started, only to be cut off.
“Don’t. Just don’t.” Ichigo insisted.
Aizen raised an eyebrow, but returned his gaze to the fight. He would ponder this later.
“Is this it, my son? You turn your blade on me once more?” Yhwach demanded.
“You stole my powers, so yeah!” Ichigo snapped.
Yhwach sighed, shaking his head. He seemed actually disappointed? But also resolved. Like this was something he knew was coming.
“Very well. Then I will show you true despair.” Yhwach replied.
The fight, well, it was rough. Aizen was using his illusions to the best of his ability to keep Yhwach on his toes. Renji had followed Ichigo through the portal and was trying to get Yhwach, but he was exhausted and badly injured. They were slowly losing ground and Ichigo knew they wouldn’t last much longer. He was tired, he was sore and he was missing a third of his usual strength.
“King, we can’t keep this up forever!” Hollow yelled and Ichigo really wished he had an idea, but he was mostly relying on instinct to keep going.
“Is this all you can do! This is pathetic!” Yhwach yelled, laughing.
“He’s really fucking full of himself.” Renji grumbled.
“Well, you can’t really blame him.” Ichigo mumbled.
“Focus if you wish to live.” Aizen replied coldly.
Then Uryuu appeared. As the arrowhead buried itself in Yhwach’s body, Ichigo felt something pulse through him. The rock in Ichigo’s pocket started to heat up.
“My son.” a whispery voice called.
Ichigo stopped and pulled the stone out. A pulse went through his body and Ichigo knew what he had to do. Yhwach felt the pulse as well and turned. His eyes landed on Ichigo and then the stone.
“What do you have, Ichigo?” Yhwach demanded.
Yhwach’s voice was shaking with rage as he held out his hand. Ichigo clenched the rock tighter.
“Give it to me! NOW!” Yhwach roared.
Ichigo shook his head. This was it. This was the last chance he had to stop Yhwach. Much like Yhwach had before, Ichigo took the Soul King’s power into himself by swallowing the stone. A flood of power filled him to the very brim and like a clear path in a foggy forest, Ichigo saw Yhwach’s weakness. He wrapped all his power and the power of the Soul King around his blade, pulled it back and let it rip.
“NO!” Yhwach howled as the power slammed into him.
The three men stared as the Yhwach struggled to escape, but there was nothing he could do. Yhwach howled as Ichigo’s combined shinigami, hollow and Soul King powers tore through him. For a moment, a bright flash appeared before it shot forward and hit Ichigo in the chest. He let out a gasp as his Quincy powers returned.
“I will not fail… I will not fall! I am eternal!” Yhwach screeched.
Ichigo stared at him before he called upon his bow. As the arrow formed, Ichigo closed his eyes.
“No, you’re not.” Ichigo stated.
He released the arrow and it hit Yhwach in the chest before exploding. When all was said and done, there was nothing left. The bow disappeared from Ichigo’s hand before his knees hit the ground.
“It’s over.” Aizen muttered.
With those words, Ichigo’s eyes rolled back in his head and he collapsed completely. He was unconscious before he hit the ground.
—sSs—
When he woke up next, Ichigo found himself kneeling, wrapped in chains, in a small room and he wasn’t alone. All around him were the captains and lieutenants he had once called allies. He could feel their eyes on him and he didn’t blame them for their caution. He had betrayed them all. Their hatred was justified. Their anger was justified. He didn’t expect them to understand or forgive, not after what he had done.
After a moment, someone started moving towards him and then Urahara’s shoes stopped at the edge of his sight before he knelt. Ichigo couldn’t look at him. He couldn’t look at his former mentor and see the disappointment in his eyes.
“Kurosaki-san. I need you to speak with me.” he said, his voice strong, but rough.
Ichigo stayed quiet.
“Yhwach is dead, so is Haschwalth. So you are the only person who can explain to us what happened.” Urahara said seriously.
Ichigo slowly lifted his eyes. There was no fan, no hat, Urahara’s face was clear. That just made Ichigo ache more. He lowered his eyes again. He couldn’t face his once mentor, he just couldn’t.
“I need you to answer me. Why? Why did you do this? Why did you betray everyone? Ishida-san said he didn’t even know why you were here or why you agreed to work with Yhwach.” Urahara demanded.
The energy in the air was sharp and getting sharper with each passing word. Ichigo wished he wasn’t the one on the receiving end of their hatred, but he accepted it. He deserved it. He should have been stronger, smarter, faster, maybe none of this would have happened.
“Kurosaki-san, please. I just need to understand. We know he took you by force, but then why work for him? I need answers.” Urahara asked, his tone slightly begging.
Ichigo swallowed hard.
“He had my sisters.” Ichigo whispered finally.
There was a sharp intake of breath from somewhere, but Ichigo wasn’t sure who had done it.
“Your sisters?” Urahara asked, sounding startled.
Ichigo gave a jerky nod. It felt good to finally tell someone. To finally reveal what had happened to them. If Yhwach was dead, then his sisters needed to be found and protected.
“I had to. He… he threatened them. He told me he would hurt them if I didn’t do as I was told. That he would kill them if I… I was just…” Ichigo choked.
“I see.” Urahara whispered.
Ichigo looked back up at Urahara.
“Please, you need to find them. He kept them in his fortress. He let me see them once before we left. I don’t care what happens to me, just please! Urahara! Please save them!” Ichigo begged, his voice shaking.
Urahara’s eyes widened and then he nodded.
“I will go get them.” Urahara agreed.
Ichigo’s shoulders relaxed and he nodded.
“Thank you.” Ichigo whispered as Urahara stood up and the whole group left, leaving Ichigo alone.
—sSs—
Yoruichi landed before the fortress and let out a sigh, watching as her breath came out in a huff. Looking around, she didn’t sense anything either inside or outside. A sinking feeling filled her, but she pressed on, hoping that the fortress was just dampening their power. The fortress, when she got inside, was empty, but vast. She searched diligently, hoping and praying that the two girls had managed to find something to keep them warm. This whole place was freezing and she truly feared the worst. Pulling her own coat closer, she started praying, though she didn’t know who she was praying to.
Room after room she opened. At one point, she paused when she found a room covered in blood. She swallowed hard when she saw scraps of black and red fabric. She knelt down and knew that this was what remained of Ichigo’s bankai jacket. She gathered up what she could before she left, her hands shaking slightly. She didn’t want to think about why there was blood on the ceiling, walls and floor.
She kept going, finding another room with a large hole in the wall. She eyed the edges and faintly sensed Ichigo’s power. She wondered how this had come to be before she kept going. She had explored most of the fortress by this point when she came to a small door. She pushed it open and gasped.
“No.” she whispered.
—sSs—
Grimmjow scowled as he followed Urahara. Behind him were the shinigami captains and Grimmjow really hoped this was worth his time. They stopped at a set of doors and when they opened, they revealed Ichigo. He looked bad, if you asked Grimmjow. Thin, sickly and overall, beaten down. It was disgusting. His rival should never look so weak unless Grimmjow himself made it so, but Grimmjow kept his opinions to himself. The captains spread out as Urahara walked over and knelt down. Ichigo looked up at him, a small bit of hope in his eyes.
“Urahara, did you find them?” he whispered, his voice cracking.
Grimmjow eyed Urahara, wondering who “they” were when Urahara’s shoulders slumped noticeably. Ichigo seemed to notice it, staring at him in desperation.
“I’m sorry… Kurosaki-san.” Urahara whispered.
Ichigo started to shake his head, slowly and then faster, almost frantic.
“N-No. No, you…” Ichigo choked on his words.
“I’m sorry, Kurosaki-san.” Urahara just repeated.
Ichigo let out a broken sound and Grimmjow’s ears perked up. It sounded like the cry of dying prey.
“H-he promised me. He told me-” Ichigo whispered.
“From what Yoruichi found… they were dead before you ever left the fortress.” Urahara replied.
There was a moment where Ichigo processed those words. And then, Grimmjow saw it, he was pretty sure everyone did, when something inside Ichigo shattered. Ichigo bowed his head and shrieked like he was dying. Grimmjow gritted his teeth at the sound. What caught him off guard was the sobs that escaped Ichigo next as he pressed his forehead to the floor, shaking.
“MY SISTERS! MY BABY SISTERS! HE-HE MURDERED-!” Ichigo yelled between sobs.
Grimmjow looked away. This wasn’t rage he was seeing, but true heartbroken agony. He couldn’t handle seeing his rival in such a broken state, not Kurosaki. Not the man who had always seemed so strong. Looking around the room, he could see the way the others watched or looked away, unable to face it themselves. More than a few had tears in their own eyes as Ichigo continued to sob, his mentor unable to do anything. As Ichigo’s sobs finally started to calm down, he spoke.
“Let it end.” Ichigo begged suddenly.
“Kurosaki-san?” Urahara muttered, confused.
Ichigo’s head snapped up, rage mixed with grief on his face.
“KILL ME!” He roared.
Grimmjow jumped a bit, startled as did a few others.
“KILL ME! LET THIS TORMENT END! PLEASE JUST LET IT END!” Ichigo screamed.
“Kurosaki-san!” Urahara was cut off.
“I CAN’T DO THIS ANYMORE! HAVEN’T I GIVEN ENOUGH! HASN’T THE WORLDS TAKEN ENOUGH FROM ME?! JUST LET ME DIE! LET ME BE WITH MY SISTERS!” Ichigo screamed, shaking his head violently back and forth.
When no one moved to do as he asked, Ichigo took matters into his own hands. He brought his head back and then slammed it face first into the floor, breaking his nose immediately. That seemed to set everyone off. Urahara tried to stop him, but Ichigo lifted his head again and slammed it into the floor once more. The blood from his nose, lip and chin left an impression as the captains jumped in to stop him.
Shinji grabbed him in a headlock, holding him tight as Ichigo jerked and twisted, screaming to be let go. That if they wouldn’t kill him, at least let him kill himself. The captains and Urahara were trying to calm him down, but Ichigo refused. Eventually Urahara pulled a syringe from his pocket and stabbed Ichigo in the neck with it. Ichigo let out another faint sound before his eyes rolled back in his head and he slumped in Shinji’s arms.
“Urahara.” Toshiro’s voice was soft, but heavy.
Urahara closed his eyes, breathing shakingly.
“We should remove what remains of the Quincy’s uniform. Perhaps it will give him some peace of mind.” Byakuya said.
His voice was strong, but also quiet. There was a muttered agreement, but Grimmjow wondered if it was for their own comfort and not Ichigo’s. It seemed like they were the ones uncomfortable with it. Urahara pulled a blade from his sleeve and started to cut away what remained of the hideous white uniform, only to stop. Grimmjow felt his pulse quicken with rage. Ichigo’s back was a mess of heavy scarred marks. On top of it all, though, Yhwach’s insignia, the Quincy Cross, was burned.
Grimmjow turned and walked away as the group gently lowered Ichigo to the floor. He couldn’t watch this anymore.
—sSs—
It was hours later that the captains and Urahara left. Ichigo had been cleaned up, his nose fixed and changed into new clothes, but he had been left to sleep. Urahara knew that this was just the beginning. Urahara was there when Yoruichi returned with the twins' bodies. Urahara couldn’t bring himself to look under the sheets Yoruichi had wrapped them in. In quiet tones, he told her what happened and she wrapped her arms around herself.
“He’ll never be the same.” she whispered as Urahara just nodded.
—sSs—
When Ichigo woke up, he just laid there. What was the point of getting up? His sisters… his heart… everything was gone. He closed his eyes for a moment, he had no energy to even keep them open. It continued like that for a few hours. Opening his eyes for a few moments before letting them close again, trying to escape the worlds that had taken so much from him. If Ichigo was going to be honest, he prayed Soul Society was as swift with justice as they always preached. May his death be quick.
As he opened his eyes for maybe the sixth or seventh time, his eyes landed on something sticking out of the floor. One of the nails holding the wooden planks down was sticking up. He stared at it before slowly getting up. Maybe… perhaps he didn’t have to wait. It was a bit of a struggle to get it out with his hands bound together against his chest. His fingers and nails were torn to pieces by the time he got the nail out, but the pain was worth it when he finally did.
Holding it up, he could see it was rather sharp. It was an older style with sharp sides rather than the smooth nails of the current time period. Holding the nail in his hand, Ichigo made a final decision.
“Karin, Yuzu… I’ll be with you soon.” Ichigo whispered.
Slitting his wrists took a bit of time and finesse. The first cut was little more than a scratch. The second was a bit deeper. The third finally drew actual blood. The fourth and fifth on that wrist made holding the nail hard, but Ichigo carried on. He switched hands to slice the other wrist and watched as the blood poured. He faintly heard footsteps coming, but he ignored them. He brought the nail to his jugular.
“KUROSAKI-SAN!” Urahara burst into the room.
Ichigo smiled sadly, a tear rolling down his face.
“Goodbye, Urahara.” Ichigo stabbed the nail into his jugular before ripping it back out.
The blood sprayed over everything, including Urahara’s face. Ichigo immediately began to choke, black filling his vision. He felt hands on him, holding his neck and wrists, voices begging him to stay strong, that they would save him, but Ichigo didn’t have the strength to be strong anymore. Not this time. Not when he had already lost everything.
“Ichigo?” a faint female voice called, cutting through all other voices.
Ichigo’s eyes turned to a woman standing over Byakuya’s shoulder. Standing there, hands clasped in front of her with a gentle smile on her face was…
“Mom?” he whispered, choking slightly.
With a shaking hand, he reached for her.
“Oh, Ichigo. My strong boy.” she said gently.
“I’m sorry, Mom. I’m so sorry.” he mumbled, still staring.
Tears were running down his face and he could only imagine how this looked to her. He hoped she understood. Her hand reached past Byakuya and took his.
“It’s ok now, sweetheart. It’s ok. Mommy’s here. Everything will be ok now. Mommy will take care of you.” she said and Ichigo smiled back.
“Ok, Mom.” he agreed.
Those were his final words.
—sSs—
Urahara felt the moment Ichigo gave his final breath, reaching for someone only he could see over Byakuya’s stunned shoulder. Ichigo’s hand dropped as his body gave up. There was no saving him. Not this time.
“He’s gone.” Urahara whispered.
“No! No, that can’t be!” Rukia screamed.
Urahara just nodded and the chaos of the room got worse. Shinji, trying to stop the blood from Ichigo’s mangled wrist, choked on a sob as he bowed his head. Kensei looked away, biting his fist as Rose leaned on his shoulder. Byakuya closed his eyes, breathing deeply, but his breathing was shaky. The other captains seemed to fall apart as well.
“How? How did he manage to do this?” Toshiro whispered.
Urahara reached down and picked up the nail on the floor.
“When you are desperate, anything is a weapon.” Urahara muttered.
Silence fell over them.
—sSs—
Urahara stood over the bodies and thought about how tragic it all was. Three young children. All gone because of things that started long before any of them were even born. In death, all three Kurosaki children, together again. As he knew Ichigo would want, he had laid Ichigo between his two sisters. Urahara wished they had been able to save just one, but perhaps this was better.
Footsteps made him look up as the door jerked open. Urahara stared as Isshin stood there, panting heavily before his eyes fell to the bodies.
“No.” Isshin whispered in horror.
“Isshin.” Urahara muttered.
Where the man had been, even Urahara had no idea. Ishida had said he had seen Isshin and Ryuuken both before going to fight Yhwach, but Urahara had no idea where they had gone from there. Urahara wanted to be angry with him, wanted to demand where the fuck he had been when his daughters and son were fighting for their lives, but no answer Isshin would give would make the rage in Urahara’s heart calm. So he didn’t even bother.
Isshin slowly moved into the room. He wore his full captain uniform, blade by his side. Urahara waited for him to speak, but Isshin just kept staring. The faces and bodies of his children had been covered as a sign of respect, but Ichigo’s hair was sticking out of the top. There was no way he could be confused for someone else.
“Tell me this is…” Isshin trailed off.
Urahara had nothing to say. Nothing. Not to a father who was standing before the bodies of his children.
“Please… Kisuke… it’s not them. It can’t be…” Isshin begged.
He looked at Urahara, his eyes begging for this to be a prank, a joke, a lie, something, but Urahara just stared back. When Urahara didn’t reply, Isshin dropped to his knees before his children, choking.
“Ichigo… Ichigo, my boy. My son.” Isshin reached for the sheet, but Urahara stopped him.
“Isshin. Don’t.” Urahara said, grabbing his wrist gently.
Isshin looked at him, tears streaming down his face.
“I need to see him.” Isshin whispered.
Urahara just shook his head.
“Remember Ichigo as you last saw him.” Urahara stated.
“B-But!” Isshin tried, but Urahara tightened his grip.
“Isshin, removing that sheet will only destroy you. I promise.” Urahara insisted.
Isshin stared at him, his lower lip trembling.
“Remember your family, your children, as they were.” Urahara stated.
Isshin started to sob, bowing his head.
“Ichigo, Yuzu, Karin. I’m sorry. Your father is sorry. So, so sorry.” Isshin sobbed.
He pressed his head to the floor, his body shaking, begging for forgiveness from bodies that couldn’t reply. Urahara turned away and stepped outside, closing the door behind him. Looking up at the sky, listening to the man who had lost his whole family sob, Urahara hoped Ichigo had ended up where Yuzu and Karin were.
—sSs—
The next captain’s meeting was… heavy. Rukia looked around, her eyes sorrowful. So many missing, so many gone. Rukia’s own captain had given his life in vain to stop Yhwach. Now her division was relying on her to be their captain until a new one could be appointed. At least she wasn’t alone considering Kotetsu was in the same boat. The taller woman looked haunted and Rukia could only imagine what she had been through these last few days.
The doors opening finally caused Rukia to come back to the present so she could straighten her back as it signaled the start of the meeting. Watching as Shunsui and Urahara stepped into the room, she wondered what was about to happen.
“Well, I wish I could say it’s nice to see you all. But we aren’t here for a social call.” Shunsui said seriously.
No one replied and he nodded, adjusting his hat.
“As we all know… Kurosaki Ichigo and his two sisters are dead.” Shunsui said softly.
A soft sob made her look over to see Orihime had her face buried in Chad’s chest. She wasn’t sure why they had been allowed to be here, but she wasn’t going to ask. Uryuu stood next to them, his eyes like stone. Beside him was Grimmjow and adult Nel. Both were stonefaced, but Nel’s eyes were slightly red. She had obviously been crying before this meeting.
“I know you all have questions about what happened. I had them too, so while searching for Kurosaki-san’s sisters, Yoruichi was able to find what looked like a security system that Yhwach was using to keep track of everything and everyone. She found videos of what happened in the final days of the Kurosaki siblings' lives. I have started reviewing them, but the information they reveal is… devastating.” Urahara explained.
Rukia suddenly had a horrible sinking feeling. It was Byakuya who spoke.
“What happened to them?” he asked.
Urahara closed his eyes, his new scars making him look even older. He seemed pained.
“Kurosaki-san was… brutally tortured by Yhwach in the days after his kidnapping.” Urahara admitted.
Orihime began to sob louder and Chad tightened his grip around her. Uryuu looked physically ill.
“Tortured?” Chad muttered.
“Beaten, whipped, stripped of his clothing, chained to a wall, Yhwach did not hold back. His desire to “break” Kurosaki-san was caught on several videos. Yet, Kurosaki-san endured it all… until his sisters were threatened.” Urahara explained.
“His sisters. Why did we never consider them? Why wasn’t anyone watching them?” Shinji mumbled, shaking his head.
“Isshin himself didn’t even know they were missing until it was too late. We found a video of Haschwalth Jugram at the Kurosaki Clinic just moments before they went missing. The time stamp on the videos show that they were brought right to the fortress.” Urahara stated.
“Ichigo never cared what happened to him, but his sisters…” Rukia whispered.
“We have audio of Yhwach promising to “free” his sisters as long as Kurosaki-san followed Yhwach’s orders.” Urahara said.
“He “freed” them alright. The disgusting fucking asshole.” Grimmjow spat.
“Admittedly, it might have been a kindness.” Uryuu said softly.
“A kindness? How?” Toshiro demanded angrily.
“No one was left in the fortress because His Majesty-er… Yhwach did not know if that structure would be able to handle the change.” Uryuu said as everyone shot him a dark glare.
“It does not matter if it was a kindness or not. His right hand, Haschwalth, slit their throats like they were cattle and left them for dead. As far as Yhwach was concerned, they were no longer important once he was sure Kurosaki-san was broken.” Urahara stated coldly.
Uryuu, Chad and Orihime all flinched at that sentence and Urahara let out a deep sigh.
“In the end, we do not know why Yhwach killed them. Whether it was a mercy or just getting rid of people he considered inferior or dirty, I cannot say. As we all know, Quincy’s value blood purity above all else.” Shunsui stated.
Uryuu’s eyes lowered as a few people glanced his way.
“The truth of the situation is this: Yhwach used Karin and Yuzu against their brother. He held their lives and safety over his head. Ichigo endured everything Yhwach put him through to protect them and Yhwach killed them anyway.” Shunsui said.
“And he called us monsters? Fucking hell.” Kenpachi scowled.
“Yhwach was always willing to sacrifice others for his own goals. That has never changed.” Shunsui replied.
Rukia looked at the floor. Ichigo, Karin, Yuzu, how her heart already ached for them. How she missed them already. They had taken her in, fed her, clothed her and kept her safe when she was at her most helpless and hopeless. To know that they hadn’t had anyone to do that for them when they needed it made her feel sick. That was when Orihime’s voice cut through everything.
“Kurosaki-kun… Ichibei-san said he was a candidate for Soul King.” Orihime said, her voice soft.
The whole group stared at her before looking at Urahara, who sighed.
“Yes, he was.” Urahara replied with a nod.
“A Soul King candidate.” Nanao whispered.
Grimmjow and Nel looked around, seemingly confused.
“The fuck does that have to do with anything?” Grimmjow demanded.
“Kurosaki-san was the only person who existed that could have killed the former Soul King and taken the throne afterwards.” Urahara replied.
“Wait…” Shinji stepped forward.
“Did you know that beforehand!” Shinji snapped angrily.
Urahara nodded quietly.
“There were writings left behind by Yama-jji. Apparently this was something discussed with the Royal Guards previously.” Shunsui explained.
Byakuya’s eyes narrowed.
“That is why they claimed they were here to train him. It wasn’t just for Yhwach.” Byakuya demanded.
“Correct. Yhwach was just a convenient excuse.” Shunsui nodded.
“This is so fucked.” Grimmjow scowled as Nel hissed at him to shush.
Rukia’s brow was furrowed before she spoke.
“Did Ichigo ever even have a choice?” she asked.
No one replied.
—sSs—
The funerals were held a few days later. As Tatsuki stood next to Orihime, watching as the service progressed, she wanted to be sick. When Orihime had told her that Ichigo and his sisters had been killed, she had been shocked. That shock had quickly turned to rage when Orihime had told her everything, about what Ichigo had suffered in the days he was missing, about his sisters, about how he had died. It was only Orihime’s hand in her’s that was keeping her from losing it on the people around them. The fact that the shinigami were crammed into the back rows… Tatsuki turned away from them.
As far as anyone else knew, Ichigo and his sisters had been killed in a house invasion gone wrong. When she saw the police tape around the Clinic a few days ago, she was shocked, but she guessed it was better than telling everyone the truth. The only people who truly knew what happened were her, Mizuiro, Keigo and those who had been there. Let out a deep breath, Tatsuki turned her attention back to the services happening.
Standing at the front, Isshin stood alone. Tatsuki had given him her condolences when she went through the line and he had just given her a sad smile.
“Thank you, Tatsuki-san. Ichigo always thought of you as a dear friend.” he muttered, his voice rough.
It had taken everything in her not to tear up. She just nodded and moved on. Sitting there as they did the final rites for the Kurosaki siblings, Tatsuki hoped that they could finally rest in peace. No more fighting, no more wars, just peace.
Chapter 10: Epilogue
Summary:
50 years have passed...
Chapter Text
“Captain Kuchiki, good morning!” Rukia nodded to her division members as they bowed to her.
“Good morning!” she replied easily.
It had been 50 years since the end of the Quincy War. Since then, she had been promoted to Captain of the 13th Division, had married Renji and had their little girl. For Rukia, life was good, yet… for all the amazing things that had happened in her life, for everything she had been able to accomplish, she still felt the aching loss of the Kurosaki siblings every day. The family who had taken her in like she was their own still held a very special place in her heart.
For a while after the siblings' deaths, she had tried to keep contact with Isshin or anyone from the Human World, but over time, she had lost contact with pretty much all of them. Orihime had gone on to open and run her own small bakery with Tatsuki as her business partner. Uryuu had become a doctor and started his own small family while Chad was a heavyweight boxing champion. Meanwhile, Isshin had just disappeared. Closed the clinic and left the town, never to be seen again. It hurt to see the home the siblings had loved stay abandoned for years, but no one had wanted to buy it and eventually, it had been knocked down.
As the years passed, in order not to forget them, she had made it a point to have a photo of them in their home and to tell Ichika all about them. About how brave Ichigo had been, how kind Yuzu had been and how stubborn Karin had been, but over all, how much they loved each other. Ichika always loved the stories about them, often asking for one every night as a child. It helped keep their memories alive in Rukia’s opinion and made her heartbreak slowly heal.
Entering her office (it still felt weird to consider it as her office even after all these years) Rukia eyed the paperwork on her desk with a sigh before she grabbed a cup of tea and settled down. The stack was quite tall, but her goal was to get at least half of it done by the end of the day! With that goal in mind, she settled herself down.
“Let’s get to it.” she mumbled.
Sitting there, she reviewed report after report, document after document with barely contained boredom. Truly, she did not understand why they had so many reports, even after all these years! While yes, the Captain Commander had gotten rid of some and that made the load lighter, it was still ridiculous in her opinion. Reaching for her cup absentmindedly, she cursed as she accidentally knocked it over, spilling all over the place.
“Damnit!” Rukia quickly grabbed a towel she kept in her desk just for this reason and started to wipe it up.
Sighing, she eyed the reports that had ended up the victims of her carelessness. Thankfully, it was only the bottom few, so she separated them out and put the ones that were safe aside. Pulling them off the desk, she moved them over to the window, hoping the sunshine would dry them out. When she got to the last one, she paused.
“An academy student division placement request?” she mumbled.
She scanned the information with a raised eyebrow. A first year student that had shown extreme promise and had submitted their scores for her division to review. Their scores were amazing across the board (their Kido was a little weak, but still pretty high on the list). The more she read, the more she had to admit, she was really impressed.
“Alright. What does this kid look like?” she mumbled as she flipped the page to the picture behind it.
She almost dropped it. Because staring back at her was…
“I’m going out!” she yelled, rushing out the door, form in hand.
“Eh! Captain! Wait!” her lieutenant yelled, but she ignored them.
Rushing to the 6th division, she didn’t stop long enough to be welcomed inside, she just pushed her way through to her brother’s office.
“Nii-sama!” she threw open the door to his office.
Byakuya hadn’t changed much over the last 50 years. His sigh of disappointment was exactly the same as she remembered, but she ignored it.
“Rukia, may I ask why you are acting like a bull in my division?” Byakuya demanded.
Renji was standing by his side, eyebrow raised at his wife. Rukia rushed to his desk and slammed the form down.
“Have you seen this?!” she demanded instead of answering.
Byakuya stared at her blankly.
“What, exactly, are you asking about?” Byakuya asked.
“This!” she all, but shoved the form in his face.
“All I can see is another form ruined by spilled tea.” Byakuya replied, boredly.
She flushed a bit, but pulled the form back enough for him to look at. Renji leaned over his shoulder, curiously.
“An academy student division placement request?” Renji questioned, confused.
Renji quickly flipped through the pages in his arms before he found it.
“Ah, you got one too, Captain. Here.” Renji held it out and Byakuya took it.
“Yes, let me see what it actually says without tea all over it.” Byakuya said.
Rukia huffed and pulled the report from his hands before flipping to the picture.
“Look!” she demanded flipping it around.
Renji choked and Byakuya’s eyes widened in shock.
“Wait? Captain, am I seeing things? Renji asked, rubbing his eyes.
“If you are, it is affecting me too.” Byakuya mumbled.
“I’m going to the Academy myself to see him.” Rukia said, lowering the form.
Byakuya stood from his desk without another word.
“Let us go then.” he stated.
The three of them quickly left the 6th, heading for the Academy. Getting to the yard, Byakuya made a request to meet with the Headmaster. As they stood in the hallway, waiting for the Headmaster to grant them their meeting, Rukia’s eyes were scanning the students, looking desperately, but she didn’t see him.
“Ah, Captain Kuchiki, Captain Kuchiki, Lieutenant Abari.” the Headmaster greeted warmly.
“Headmaster. Thank you for meeting with us on such short notice.” Byakuya bowed his head lightly.
“Of course. Anything for our fine Captains. Now, how can I be of assistance?” he asked politely.
Byakuya held out the form to him, the picture in front.
“We are looking for this young man.” Byakuya stated.
The Headmaster adjusted his glasses before laughing.
“Ah yes, our resident prodigy this year! I had hoped one of the divisions would be interested in speaking with him! Come, allow me to introduce you.” The Headmaster led the way.
As they walked, Rukia reached for the familiar reiatsu she had come to know so well. While she didn’t find the exact same one, she found something similar and it made her choke up. Trying to keep her emotions under control, she tuned back into the conversation.
“He came to us from Rukongai. Completely untrained, but incredibly strong! I mean he took to the sword like he was born for it! Truly, I have never seen someone like him before and neither have any of the other staff!” The Headmaster was saying.
Rukia’s lips twitched and Renji caught her eye.
“Now, it would be one thing if he came alone, of course, but his sisters? My, they are going to go far as well! They are too young to start with us, but I can already tell they will be powerful as well!” the Headmaster continued.
Rukia tripped and Renji caught her, but all three of them were staring at him.
“His… sisters?” Rukia whispered.
“Hm? Oh yes! Twin girls who followed him to the Academy. According to him, their parents had passed away and he didn’t want to leave them alone, so I agreed to let them stay here as long as he kept his grades up and dear Soul King did he ever!” the Headmaster stated with a chuckle, only for it to trail off.
“The problem we have, however, is we do not have space for all three of them. I have made as many accommodations as I can, but I worry for next year. He told me if I can’t continue to accommodate them, he will have to leave. It would truly be a shame if we lost someone like him because of that.” the Headmaster admitted.
Twin girls. Rukia thought she might actually cry. Coming to a small area in the back of the Academy, the first thing Rukia saw was orange. A young man sat under a nearby tree, talking to two young girls.
“Ichigen! Can you come here please? You have visitors!” the Headmaster called.
The young man glanced up with a raised eyebrow. He stood up, said something to the girls and then walked over. Rukia watched the girls turn, watching him go. One was blonde, the other had black hair, clearly twins and related to the older boy.
“You called, Headmaster?” the young man asked.
A long mane of wild orange hair trailed across his shoulders, done up in a high ponytail. His brown eyes took in the captains and lieutenant before him, but there was nothing in them. No flash of recognition, no clarity, just general curiosity. As if he was meeting complete strangers.
“Yes, yes. Ichigen, this is Captain Kuchiki of the 6th division, Lieutenant Abari of the 6th division and Captain Kuchiki of the 13th division. They have come here after getting the request.” the Headmaster explained.
Ichigen looked them over before he bowed his head.
“A pleasure to meet you all. I have to admit, I didn’t expect anything to come from my requests being sent out.” Ichigen said calmly.
Rukia’s heart started to break. It was him, it was Ichigo, but it also… wasn’t. It wasn’t her friend…
“Your report caught our eye from your rather impressive grades and skills.” Byakuya said, breaking Rukia from her depressive slump.
Ichigen raised an eyebrow.
“Really? I mean, that’s great, but I’m only a first year.” Ichigen replied.
“You will find that the first year at the Academy can be very difficult. Most students don’t do half as well.” Byakuya stated.
“Right…” Ichigen said, shifting nervously.
Renji elbowed Rukia, who quickly coughed and straightened her spine.
“Soul Society is always looking for strong souls to fill the ranks. We hope, if you are interested in one of our divisions, that we can convince you to continue with your studies.” Rukia explained.
Ichigen frowned and glanced at his sisters.
“The Headmaster says he doesn’t have room for us. I mean I’ll sleep on the roof, I don’t care, but… my sisters deserve a warm bed and a roof over their heads. I would love to stay, but their comfort comes first.” Ichigen said softly.
“Then you will have it.” Byakuya said seriously.
Everyone turned to him in confusion. Byakuya turned to the Headmaster.
“I will pay to add an addition onto the Academy to ensure there is enough room.” Byakuya stated.
“Nii-sama?” Rukia whispered.
“Captain Kuchiki!” the Headmaster started, but Byakuya held up a hand.
“I cannot sit by and let strong candidates fluke out of the Academy simply because there is a lack of room. If a simple addition is what we need, then the Kuchiki Clan will provide. For the betterment of Soul Society and the Gotei 13.” Byakuya declared.
Ichigen’s eyes lit up and he bowed.
“Thank you! This will help put my mind at ease.” Ichigen said.
“Of course. It is… the least I can do.” Byakuya replied, his voice catching slightly.
Byakuya turned away.
“Headmaster, let us speak in your office. Come, Lieutenant Abari.” Byakuya said.
“Yes!” the Headmaster and Renji said, quickly following him.
Suddenly left alone with Ichigen, Rukia turned her head to see him looking at her.
“You have a good older brother there.” Ichigen said with a smile.
“Yes, he is, isn’t he?” she nodded.
“Ichi-nii?” a small voice called.
Rukia stiffened at the name, but Ichigen just turned around.
“Ah, Yuki and Kana, come here.” Ichigen waved them over.
They came to stand by his side.
“Girls, this is Captain Kuchiki of the 13th division. She came to see me because of that report I was telling you about.” Ichigen said.
Rukia swallowed hard as two pairs of eyes locked on her’s. Kana crossed her arms, eyebrow raised. Yuki gave her a sweet smile.
“It’s nice to meet you!” Yuki said sweetly.
“Same.” Kana stated.
“A pleasure to meet you both as well.” Rukia replied, her voice small.
“So are you here to recruit our brother? Because we promise, he’s really strong.” Kana said proudly.
“Kana, shush! Don’t talk to a captain like that.” Ichigen hissed.
“Sorry.” Kana didn’t sound sorry.
Ichigen sighed deeply before turning to Rukia.
“Sorry, I promise you, I taught her manners.” Ichigen said with a half smile.
Rukia smiled back.
“It’s ok. I don’t mind one bit.” she replied.
For Rukia, even though they were technically different souls, it felt like coming home. Like she was finally back with the Kurosaki siblings. Maybe, this time, she could be the one to protect them instead.
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New_Didive on Chapter 1 Sat 21 Dec 2024 04:14AM UTC
Last Edited Mon 23 Dec 2024 08:05PM UTC
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Kyuubiluver342 on Chapter 1 Thu 26 Dec 2024 01:54AM UTC
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Zero1412 on Chapter 1 Sat 21 Dec 2024 06:43AM UTC
Last Edited Sat 21 Dec 2024 06:45AM UTC
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Zero1412 on Chapter 4 Sat 28 Dec 2024 12:01AM UTC
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yoha_ku on Chapter 4 Sat 28 Dec 2024 05:53PM UTC
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