The Devil's Bleached Tears
Part 8
The Infestation.
OooOOooOO
It was an unusually quiet day in Karakura town for most of the population. The insects and birds had gone quiet, and it left an unsettled feeling across the town that no one could quite pinpoint the cause of. Many people could feel an innate wrongness in the air, others never noticed. It was still, as if time had stood still, and left most people in a slightly more sour mood than normal. Barely noticeable to most of the population.
Ichigo dashed across the rooftops, he jumped into the air slashing an airborne creature with his spirit weapon. Sailing over the heads of unaware pedestrians across the rooftops. His spirit sword was gripped in his hand as he landed and continued his path, hacking and slashing at the white creatures of various sizes and shapes as he moved. They were weak hollows, but there were a lot of them. Stalling his progress as he dashed towards the Elementary School where his two sisters attended. ôDamn it. This is taking forever.ö He wasn't even keeping count of the number of hollows he was destroying. ôI'm gonna kick that bastard's face in when this is over.ö
OooOOooOO
ôFifty seven, fifty eight,ö muttered Uryuu as he kept count and continued to pull spiritual energy from the air and into his weapon. His finger was becoming sore from drawing, a little blood was dripping through the wrappings on his index as he pulled back. ôA few more than expected, but no problems. I will not lose!ö
OooOOooOO
ôTatsuki, what did you bring for lunch?ö Orihime smiled as she sat down in the shade of a tree with her friend. It was a beautiful day, and despite the strange silence, they had opted to eat on the grounds outside the classroom.
The short haired girl frowned at her. ôI told you twice all ready. Are you all right?ö
The girl nodded. ôSorry, I guess I'm distracted. It's...so quiet today. Isn't it a little strange?ö
Her friend cocked her head. ôI guess. What do you mean?ö
ôI don't hear any birds, and the insects have all gone quiet. It's strange.ö The redhead shuddered. ôMaybe...we should eat inside?ö
Tatsuki frowned at that. ôHuh. Now that you mention it, yeah. It is pretty quiet. What's the big deal though?ö She did feel a little off, but didn't want to say anything and make Orihime any more nervous. ôRelax would you? Just eat, and we'll head back inside. I'm starved.ö She looked up at her friend.
Orihime was looking up at the top of the school building.
ôHuh?ö her friend followed her gaze. ôWhat the hell is that weirdo doing? He'll get in trouble if anyone sees him.ö
Akuma was standing on the railing on the corner of the roof. He was looking out at the sky with his odd grin. He wasn't wearing his uniform, and had a long black trench coat on.
Orihime gasped as she noticed something odd. The boy had a sword in his hand, a big one. The boy turned his gaze down towards her and his expression didn't change. He simply turned away and walked back onto the roof. ôSomething...is wrong.ö
Tatsuki scowled at her. ôWhat is with you today? Everything is fine.ö
The redhead looked at her with a frightened expression. ôSomething just feels wrong. I'm not sure what it is.ö
Her friend pushed up. ôAll right, we'll eat inside. Come on then.ö She stood up and dusted off her skirt. ôCome on then.ö She paused and looked around. ôHuh? She's...where?ö Orihime was gone, vanished from right next to her. ôOrihime? Hey, Orihime!ö She took a few steps and glanced around. ôWhere did she go? Oi! Orihime! Where are you?ö She looked about, seeing nothing and started to jog. ôShe can't have just...ö
A flash of orange red hair caught her attention at the edge of the building, rounding the corner. ôHey! How did she get way over there?ö She started jogging towards it.
She never looked up. Orihime had terror in her eyes, dozens of hands were holding her body still, and covered her mouth. A monstrous looking woman's face moved up next to hers. ôHeh. Poor girl, but...I could say the same of you.ö
The unfortunate girl was being held in the tree branches as the monster's body wrapped around it's branches. It was a centipede like creature with a woman's torso instead of a head. The legs were human arms for half of the body, and twisted legs and feet for the lower half. It was easily ten meters long, and had a hole in it's chest where it's heart would have been. Orihime struggled, trying to call out to her friend and warn her. The top half of it's face was covered by an inhuman looking skull, with the lower jaw exposed. The mouth had black lips, and sharp teeth.
Tatsuki vanished around the corner and her struggles grew stronger.
ôWell, you're quite a girl. You can see me can't you, and hear me? How...wonderful.ö The thing tightened it's grip and four of the hands wrapped around the girl's throat. ôDelicious!ö It had a dark grin on it's face as it turned her around to face her, putting it's face up to hers. ôYou're quite fortunate you know, if you're good I'll be quick. A few moments of discomfort and it will all be over.ö The thing looked towards the corner and mocked pity. ôPoor thing, Anakaris likes to play with his food. He was a serial murderer in life, and a rapist. He'll torment her, paralyze her, and sate his hungers before he consumes her. If I finish with you quickly enough, I may just watch. It's very entertaining.ö
Orihime's eyes shook with terror. ôNo! Tatsuki!ö screamed her mind. The creature's hands began to grow tight around her throat.
ôI'm not sure I'll have time, you'll be quite the meal I think!ö The monster's eyes grew wide as she reveled in dark pleasure. ôHeh. I suppose I can't complain. Her spiritual power is pathetic compared to yours. I'm very fortunate, too bad for you.ö
OooOOooOO
Tatsuki rounded the corner and slid to a stop. It was the shaded side of the building, a long shadow was cast across the grounds, with a small equipment shed ahead of her. ôOri...Orihime?ö she muttered. The air felt chilled, cooler than it should. ôWhere did she go? I know I saw her.ö
In the doorway to the equipment shed ahead, she saw another flash of orange hair, vanishing into the door. She walked up to it and pulled the door open a bit. ôOrihime? Are you in here? Say something.ö She took a few steps inside. It was about twenty feet square, filled with mats, posts, sports equipment, and bags filled with half inflated balls. She could feel her nerves starting to tingle, growing on edge as goose bumps crawled across her skin. Her eyes went wide as she stopped cold. Suspended on a string in front of her was a tuft of orange hair. It appeared to be floating, suspended from the ceiling. In front of her eyes it turned gray.
The girl took a staggering step back. ôWhat the?ö
ôHeh. You...can't see me can you? A shame, you're spiritual power is stronger than most, but you've got no idea what's coming do you?ö The thing was standing in front of her, no more than five feet in front of her face. It had the body of a spider, with long sharp legs that ended in barbed bladed edges. It's torso was that of a man, with a bone like mask over it's face, and sharp teeth. Instead of arms, it had two more spider like appendages, tipped with sharp finger like claws.
Tatsuki narrowed her eyes. She could see something, but it was fuzzy, ethereal, and had no definite form to it. ôWhat is...ö She was cut off as she flew onto her back, a strike across her face from nowhere laid her out. ôWhat?ö she muttered in horror. She screamed as a stabbing pain jabbed into her calf. An open wound appeared out of nothing and began to ooze blood. ôShit! What the hell!ö she grabbed and felt something invisible that was stabbing her leg. It felt bony, and sharp in her grip, giving her a few gashes in her hands. It pulled out of her leg and she screamed in pain, scrambling to her feet as soon as she was free.
The girl put up her fists, her eyes wide with horror as she staggered back, favoring one leg.
ôYes, put up a fight, struggle!ö hissed the thing. She couldn't hear it though and looked about. Her eyes focused on the mass of invisible something, like a distortion in the air. ôWhat is that thing?ö
ôSo, you can see where I'm at?ö snarled the creature. ôThat's something, a better meal than most of the pathetic creatures in this place. Saanide and I will have fun picking them off one by one.ö It stalked towards her. ôYou can't run anymore, there's no way to escape.ö It lashed out with it's clawed fingers.
The girl ducked and rolled aside, getting to her feet in a shaky manner. She narrowed her eyes and noticed that some of the equipment was tossed aside. ôI don't know what you are, but you're not getting me without a fight!ö she charged forward punching at the monster.
The thing grunted, it had actually felt the blow to it's torso. It was weak though, and mildly irritating. ôWell, aren't we something. Heh.ö It attacked again, but found it's strikes blocked. It wasn't trying very hard, poking and toying with her.
Tatsuke started hefting objects in the room at the thing. They were swatted aside, and she could keep a bead on where it was, but it was without form, and she couldn't see what was knocking them away. ôShit.ö The girl started edging towards the exit. She picked up a pole, a piece of a net used for volleyball.
ôSo sweet. I always liked strong women. They are the most fun to break!ö The creature stalked towards her.
Tatsuke slid open the door behind her and backed out, poking at the thing stalking towards her with the pole. It was ripped from her hands and became impaled in the opposite wall. Not knowing what had hit her, she fell to the ground feeling her leg was grabbed. She fell on her back and screamed, kicking at what was grabbing her with her other injured leg. The strikes were weak, and each strike sent new waves of pain into her body. She didn't stop though and cried out in rage. ôLet go you...ö Again, her cries were stopped as another injury appeared in her other leg. She tried to roll over and gripped at the ground, creating drag marks in the dirt. ôNo!ö It pulled her back into the shed, and the door closed, muffling her screams within.
OooOOooOO
Keigo looked over at where Akuma was standing on the corner of the roof. ôMan, what's with that guy?ö
Mizuiro shrugged and looked over at him. ôI dunno. He's just staring off into space. I guess he's not scared of falling.ö
Sado was with them, and was sitting against the wall eating his lunch in silence. He looked over at the boy, he had his usual creepy grin. He didn't say anything out loud and turned his eyes away. ôDoes he feel this uneasiness as well?ö
Without a word, Akuma turned away and walked towards the entrance to the building.
Sado's eyes went wide. The boy was holding a sword in his hand, a very large one. He wasn't dressed in his uniform either. ôWhat?ö
Mizuiro shrugged. ôI dunno, that guy is just weird.ö
Keigo coughed after choking on a bit of rice for a moment. ôDid you see that?ö He looked at the other two.
The black haired boy smiled at him and shook his head. ôSee what?ö
His friend gasped and looked panicked. ôHe had a sword! A big one!ö
ôAre you sure?ö muttered Kojima in confusion. ôDid you see anything Yasutora?ö
The larger boy frowned. ôI'm not sure.ö
Keigo pointed at him. ôYou did see it didn't you! I almost didn't notice because of that big coat he had! What's he doing with something like that at school? Oh, man. Maybe he's gone crazy, and is planning on chopping up the class! I hope he's not mad at me.ö
Mizuiro shook his head. ôI doubt it. He'll get expelled for sure if he gets caught with something like that.ö
Chad frowned and looked thoughtful. ôSomething is going on.ö His eyes narrowed as something landed in the middle of the rooftop. He and his two classmates were the only students up there that day. ôHuh?ö He couldn't see what it was. He just, knew it was there somehow. He could see where it was, and about how large it was, but that was all his senses could show him.
The other two looked at him. ôHey. You all right, Sado? You look a bit pale.ö Mizuiro was confused by his sudden and rather surprised expression.
ôSee! He did see it! Maybe we should skip the rest of the day? That guy is weird and crazy. He'll kill us all!ö cried Keigo.
Chad stood up and moved past them, putting himself between the thing and his friends. ôSomething...is there.ö
The creature focused on the trio. ôHeh. Pathetic, but I suppose it will have to do.ö It had a mass of tentacles as it's lower body, like those of a squid. With two longer appendages with flattened tips. The upper half of it's body was insect like, with two Praying Mantis like claws instead of arms. It's chest had a large hole in it, and the mask that covered it's face had two long fang like mandibles poking out of the sides of it. ôThe big one seems the most interesting, but why waste the other two, even as pathetic as they are.ö Insect wings opened up behind it's back and it floated into the air.
Chad gasped as the thing hovered above the roof and moved towards them. ôWhat?ö
The monster sneered at them all. ôThey don't even see death coming, but the big one seems to have enough spiritual power to have noticed me. His tentacles lashed out, wrapping all three of them up.
Keigo gasped as he felt something around his neck. His arm became pulled tight as he was lifted off his feet and into the air. ôGah! What...what is this?ö
ôWhat's going on!?ö cried Mizuiro as he found himself in the same position. He was tugging at invisible bonds at his neck and waist. ôSomething's got me!ö
Chad slid forward, but wasn't lifted into the air. He pushed back with his legs, struggling against whatever had just wrapped around his arms, and felt another appendage about his waist. ôThis...ö He could see that something was holding onto him, but it was just a fuzzy blur of air to him. ôThis...Kojima, Asano!ö
The pair was struggling to breathe and kicked their legs about in the air as they hung there. ôLet go!ö gasped Keigo.
ôSomething's got me!ö gasped Mizuiro through his chokes.
OooOOooOO
At Karakura Elementary School, Yuzu and Karin were walking back towards their class. Each holding a bento they had bought from the lunch room.
The brunette girl smiled at her sister. ôWe should eat outside.ö
Karin shrugged. ôWe're almost back to the classroom though. Maybe tomorrow?ö
Her sister shrugged. ôAll right. I guess.ö She paused and looked around. ôIt's quiet.ö
The black haired girl nodded. ôYeah. I noticed it too. Where is everyone?ö The hallway had a few students standing in it. A couple of boys were down the hall and pulling things from their lockers. A bit further down, a few boys were standing at a window looking outside. It was unusually vacant for the lunch period though.
Yuzu nodded. ôWell, we were almost last in line.ö She pointed at her bento. It was cheap plastic, and the school sold them. ôI'm making lunch for us tomorrow though. I just thought it would be nice to buy them today just for a change of pace.ö
Her sister seemed to accept that. ôYeah. I guess everyone else has already found a place to eat.ö She stopped and froze. ôWhat the hell?ö
Yuzu blinked and followed her gaze. ôHey. I see something...ö It was fuzzy and white. Like looking at something through an out of focus lens. ôWhat is that?ö
It was a large cat like creature, about eight feet long and four feet high. It's face was covered in a bone like mask, and it stalked into the hall from one of the windows. Passing right through the glass as if the window was open.
ôShit,ö said Karin as she dropped her bento and grabbed her sister by the hand.
The thing's head snapped around and glared at them. It's eyes narrowed as it focused on the pair in front of it.
ôWhat's going on? What is that?ö muttered Yuzu in confusion.
ôRun!ö snapped Karin as she dragged her sister off, forcing the girl to drop her own lunch.
ôHey! My lunch!ö cried the girl.
ôIt's not worth your life! Move!ö snapped her sister urgently. The other students in the hall looked confused as the two girls raced by them.
ôHey, you'll get in trouble for running in the hall!ö called one of the boys they moved by.
The girls ignored him and continued to run, turning down the stairs. The beast was lumbering after them, picking up speed as it went.
ôIt looks like a dog or something,ö said Yuzu as she looked over her shoulder as her sister pulled her around the corner and down the stairs.
ôIf it catches us it will kill us!ö snapped her sister angrily. ôIt's a big cat! Now run!ö She shoved the girl in front of her and pushed at her back.
The pair slid onto the next floor down. The exit was on the other end of the hall.
Karin pulled her sister aside and went for a nearby closet. She ducked inside and pushed her sister back. Both of them gasping for breath. She left the door open a crack and peered out into the hall.
The thing bounded down the stairs and looked around, panning it's head from left to right as it growled in frustration. It put it's nose to the ground and appeared to try to pick up the trail.
ôShit,ö gasped Karin. ôWe won't be able to hide here long. We've got to distract it so we can get away.ö
Yuzu frowned at that and nodded. ôIt's dangerous then?ö
Karin looked at her in disbelief. ôYes! You remember that thing we saw Ichigo fighting when we went to visit Mom? I think it's one of those monsters!ö She shook her by her shoulders. ôIt will eat us if it finds us!ö
The brunette nodded and had a serious expression on her face. ôOh.ö She shrugged. ôWell, we should get away then.ö
Karin hung her head. ôThat's what I've been trying to do.ö She walked over to the door and peered outside. The hallway appeared empty. ôI think it's gone. Come on.ö
The pair walked out, Karin practically dragging her twin along behind her.
ôI was wondering how long you were going to wait in there,ö said a cold voice.
Both girls froze and turned their heads back. The beast was sitting against the wall behind the door, looking at them. It cocked it's head. ôI'll tell you what, I'm bored. I'll give you a head start.ö It crouched and waved it's rear in the air. ôStart running.ö
ôCrap,ö muttered Karin as she pulled her sister along behind her and ran as fast as her legs would go.
The pair dashed outside the doors to the school and slid to a stop outside. The monster bounded outside of one of the windows and landed beside them. They both backed away, Karin clearly more nervous than her sister. Her eyes were wide with terror.
ôThe chase is fun, but you can't outrun me on such puny legs. Don't give up though, you might make it,ö sneered the thing.
Yuzu was panting for breath and gasping. ôKarin, I'm tired.ö
Her sister grabbed her hand and pulled her along. ôShut up and run! This isn't P.E. That thing will kill us!ö
The brunette girl couldn't keep up with her sister. She tripped as she was pulled and brought Karin down to the ground with her. The dark haired girl slid a bit further away and looked over her shoulder.
The monster bounded forward, landing on top of the fallen Yuzu. The girl screeched and coughed as it's front paws landed on her chest.
ôNo!ö cried Karin in horror as she staggered to her feet.
Yuzu had the wind knocked out of her and struggled on the ground under it's paws. She pushed against it's toes with her hands and didn't look like she could move.
The beast snarled. ôWell, it was fun, but I should finish you off before the other gets away!ö It opened it's mouth and bit into Yuzu's shoulder.
The younger girl's eyes went wide and she opened her mouth as she felt the teeth sink in. ôI...ö
ôYuzu! No!ö Karin screamed as she ran forward, not thinking about what she was doing.
The beast released her sister and swiped a paw at her as she jumped into a kick at it's face in an attempt to pin her down as well. ôYou fool! You might have...ö It blinked in surprise as the girl twisted in the air around it's paw. Her irises had become slits and a dark look had formed on her face as she wrapped her arms around the paw, kicked her foot under it's jaw and swung around it's forearm like a gymnast. At the apex of her flip she let go and landed in a crouch a few feet away. Her head snapped up and she snarled at the thing. ôYou...get the hell away from my sister!ö She charged on the ground this time, rearing her arm back.
The Hollow was shaking it's head, clearly surprised by the force of the blow. ôWhat the?ö It still had the other girl pinned under it's paw though. Yuzu was gasping, and it didn't notice that her eyes had changed as well.
Karin dashed right up into it's face and slammed her fist into it's nose. The Hollow was thrown back, rolling over itself. It screeched as it slid to a stop, feeling stabbing pain along it's side. The thing grunted as it tried to move, looking at it's side. ôWhat? What are you?ö It's eyes turned towards the two girls.
Karin had her fist extended still, and a trail of ice shards were poking up from the ground that seemed to explode into a half buried spiked ball right in front of it. It's left front and rear paw were frozen inside, and it's side was impaled on several of them. A long slender tail whipped back and fourth behind her, and her skin had become a light violet in color. It seemed to flicker between the darker color and a more human tone as she stood there gasping. ôWhat?ö she looked at her fist in shock. ôI..I did?ö
Yuzu sat up, a dark smile on her own face. ôKarin, I...I can see it!ö she hissed at her sister with an excited and dangerous looking grin. ôSo, that's what it looks like then?ö
Her sister looked at her twin and gasped. She had also sprouted a long slender tail and her skin had become reddish in color. Her eye teeth had elongated into small fangs, and her irises had become very clearly defined slits. Her eyes had gone from brown, to completely yellow. There were no more whites in her eyes. ôWhat? Yuzu?ö gasped her sister.
The other girl chuckled. ôI was trying to tell you, we don't need to run away. Not from this thing. It's weak.ö She balled up her fist and it became engulfed in flames.
Karin staggered back. ôWhat happened to you? Y-Yuzu?ö
Her sister glanced over her shoulder. ôIf you weren't so afraid of our brother, he would have showed you too.ö She narrowed her eyes at the trapped monster.
ôWhat are you?ö It snarled at her, posing and trying to scare her. ôRelease me! I'll destroy you both.ö
Yuzu shook her head. ôI don't think so.ö She stalked forward flexing her fingers as her hand burned with fire.
ôB..brother?ö muttered Karin. ôYuzu stop! You...you look different.ö
The other girl hissed a chuckle. ôSo do you. I've never done this before. It's kind of cool don't you think?ö
Her sister gasped and looked at her hands. She fell to her knees. Her skin was now dark purple, and her fingers ended in little black claws that weren't quite fingernails. ôWhat? What is this?ö
Yuzu snarled as she jumped into the air and thrust her hand down. The Hollow howled as the strike burned right through it's body. It twitched and writhed, cut in half across it's torso.
ôNo! Let me go! I won't...I'll leave! I'll find another. I'll never return here again! I swear!ö
Yuzu frowned at the thing. ôI know you won't.ö She reared back her fist and punched it in the mask. There was an explosion as her fist connected.
Karin shielded herself with her arms as little pieces of the mask rained down around her. ôWhat? What is this?ö
Yuzu turned and smiled at her as the monster vanished. The ice was melting in her wake as she walked towards her with her hand still burning. ôIt's our blood.ö The flame faded as she approached her sister and gave her usual warm smile. It was unsettling on her new face. It looked wrong somehow. ôAkuma has been showing me. It's called Demon Arts. We can do it naturally, it's instinct. It's easier for us, because we're female. Boys are tougher and like to fight. Girls are different though, we use power like this more easily.ö
The girl looked at her with wide eyes. ôAkuma...showed you this?ö
Yuzu's skin faded back to it's more human color. ôHe said how I look might change if I got too excited. It's never happened before though. That was so cool! I could see it and everything!ö
Karin looked down at her hands and gasped. She'd returned to her normal color. ôThat was weird. Yuzu, you had a tail.ö
ôMom has a tail,ö she replied with a shrug.
The dark haired girl frowned a bit. ôHow do you know?ö
ôAkuma showed me what she looked like. He's pretty cool, really. I don't get why you don't like him.ö Yuzu cocked her head.
Karin hung her head. ôYeah. I feel strange though. Different somehow.ö
Yuzu nodded. ôYeah. Me too. It was awesome!ö
Karin grabbed her sister's arm and looked at her shoulder. ôThat thing bit you, are you all right?ö
She looked at where the wound was. ôIt got better. We're not as tough as Ichigo and Akuma, but we're not as weak as humans either. We're much faster and stronger, and if we work really hard, we'll be faster than Ichigo or Akuma.ö She seemed very cheerful, and there was now a patch of mud on the ground. ôCome on. I'm still hungry, and we probably don't have much of our lunch break left.ö
The dark haired girl frowned at her and nodded. ôSo, he taught you this stuff?ö
Yuzu nodded looking quite proud of herself. ôYeah. You never talk to him though. You avoid him all the time.ö
Her sister scowled. ôI still don't trust him, I don't think you should either. There's something off about that guy.ö They walked back into the building side by side.
The brunette twin stuck her tongue out at her. ôHe's our brother. There's nothing wrong with him.ö
Karin crossed her arms and pouted. ôIchigo doesn't trust him either.ö
Yuzu giggled. ôI guess we both have our favorite then.ö
That hit Karin as a surprise. ôWhat? Favorite?ö
Yuzu skipped off, bored with the conversation. Karin arched her eyebrows. Yuzu looked taller somehow. Not by a lot, but she did seem different in appearance. She couldn't quite put her finger on exactly how though. ôWhat just happened to us? This is strange.ö
OooOOooOO
Ichigo looked down the road. He could see the clinic ahead, and the area around his home and his sisters' school was clear of Hollows. They were all coming from a single direction. ôIf I head back now, they should be safe.ö He turned and started running back in the other direction. ôI'm gonna go deal with that jerk now and make his sorry butt cry for causing this mess.ö
The way was clear, but the Hollows were still coming. He had to find a way to stop it, but his short term goal was met. His family was safe as long as he kept them from getting by him.
OooOOooOO
Rukia gasped as she rolled aside. The Hollow before her was unaffected by her Kido. ôDamn. What the hell? I've been in this Gigai for two months, and it's like I've actually gotten weaker!ö She jumped aside as the thing slammed it's claw into the ground. ôI can't keep this up. I'm in serious trouble.ö
The monster dove at her and she braced herself. It never reached her, and fell in half as it landed on the ground on either side of her. ôHuh? Ichi...ö
Urahara was standing behind her with a small frown on his face. His cane was resting on his shoulder. ôHello. Funny running into you here.ö
She stood up and looked at her knee. She'd gotten a scrape and it was bloodied. ôYeah. Funny that. What's going on? Where are all these Hollows coming from?ö
He pulled out his fan and put it in front of his face as he narrowed his eyes. ôI'm not sure. Something is up though, there's a lot of activity. Far more than normal.ö
Rukia scowled at him. ôI noticed, I suppose I should say thanks, but I'm not so sure you didn't have something to do with all this.ö
He faked an expression of shock. ôMe? Surely you jest.ö He looked towards the direction the things were coming from. ôAt any rate, you should head back to the shop. It's safe there, and it doesn't appear that you're going to do much good.ö
She looked in the same direction. ôWhat about Ichigo?ö
The man had a serious expression on his face. ôI've a feeling he'll be fine. I've got other business.ö He pointed with his fan. ôThat way. I'll see you later. Just, head to the shop and keep your head down. I don't think this will last the day.ö
Rukia looked frustrated. ôAll right. For now, I'm going to grill you about this later you know. I know you know more than you're saying.ö
He smiled at her. ôI'll tell you if I find anything out. Like I said, I have suspicions, but I'm really not sure what's happening.ö
OooOOooOO
Chad struggled against the thing as it tried to pull him into the air with the others. ôWhat...is happening?ö
Keigo and Mizuiro were growing weak. Their struggles were slowing.
The Hollow sneered at them. ôThese two are almost finished, but you...heh. I may actually get a better meal than I anticipated.ö
Sado struggled, he could almost hear something. It sounded like it was taunting him. ôI must do something.ö He tugged and pulled against it, unable to free himself from it's grip. ôMy friends, they are in danger!ö
The other two boys went limp, their struggles stopped as they finally passed out.
The large boy was having trouble breathing, the thing had a firm grip on his neck and torso. It prevented him from taking any more than shallow breaths, and he had to struggle and pry the thing around his neck away just to do that much. His Abuelo's voice echoed in his mind. ôThese big fist that you have, for what purpose do they serve? You must find out.ö
ôYes, Abuelo. I understand now. My giant fists, are not for the sake of causing pain, but for the sake of protecting others. I understand, I understand it all, so even if just a little...please...lend me strength.ö
The monster narrowed it's eyes. ôWhat?ö It's grip was being pried free, and a strange power was pouring from the largest of its victims. ôWhat is this?ö The tentacles that surrounded the boy were ripped off leaving pieces of them hanging from Sado's body. ôWhat? It can't be! You!ö
The other two boys slumped down onto the rooftop as it focused it's rage on the giant boy. ôYou'll suffer! I'll destroy you!ö
Sado could see it clearly. A strange red and black armor plating appeared over his right arm. He frowned and rushed forward, thrusting his fist at the base of the monster.
The creature howled as it was blown in half. The torso floated up higher into the air. All of it's tentacles were removed and it was enraged. ôYou! I'll kill you for that!ö It dove at him and spread it's dangerous looking claws.
Sado stood his ground, flexing his newly armored arm. As it neared, he struck again. This time, the monster's head was vaporized as a blast of energy shot out of his fist as it connected with it's face. The thing slumped to the ground, and began to evaporate.
Chad gasped as he fell to one knee. ôI...defeated it.ö He wasn't sure what to make of what had appeared on his arm. He felt weak and drained though. ôMizuiro, Keigo...ö He glanced over and saw both boys were breating, but out cold on their backs. They appeared to be fine, and his head began to swim. ôI...ö The world spun out of control and went dark, and he fell to the rooftop beside them.
OooOOooOO
Orihime gasped for breath. She struggled and fought against the thing holding her. She wanted to get away, not to save her own life, but because she knew Tatsuki was in danger. The girl who had always protected her, one of the things like the one choking the life from her was after her as well.
ôNo! You...won't hurt Tatsuki!ö
The creature chuckled. ôI don't have too. She's suffering far more than you, just be grateful I am not so cruel!ö
The girl got a firm look on her face as the expression of pain vanished. ôI won't forgive you! I won't forgive those who would hurt Tatsuki!ö
ôEh?ö muttered the confused monster. Some of her arms moved up to shield her face as a bright light formed in the barrette on the side of her hair. ôWhat! AAAAAAARRRRGGGGGHHHHH!ö It backed away and dropped her, not by choice, but because the arms holding her became lopped off at various points. ôWhat? What is this? You...ö
Orihime landed on the ground. ôI will save Tatsuki! I won't let you monster's have her!ö A wind swirled around the girl, rustling the leaves. The monster landed on the ground, half her arms gone. It was angry with her and moved between her and where her friend had gone.
ôI won't let you escape girl! You're my victim!ö
Orihime frowned as something fluttered around her in the air. Each one had come from one of the six flower petals in her barrette. ôWhat? What are these things?ö
They spoke to her, their voices carried on the wind surrounding her.
ôShe must be aware of our existence.ö
ôNo, she is aware, after all. We are the ones, who stay nearest to her.ö
One of them landed on her shoulder, and the others floated around behind her. They looked like techno fairies. ôNice to meet you Orihime. We are the Shun Shun Rikka. Born to protect you. We are your power.ö
ôWhoa! Flying midgets!ö The girl looked shocked.
ôWe're not midgets,ö said one of the female ones. Half of them appeared to be girls, the other half were male. ôWe're your power, your own self!ö
The girl swatted her between her hands. ôOuch! Don't try to catch me because you don't understand! You're the only one who can see us!ö
ôWe don't have time for this!ö snapped one of the male ones. He was smaller than the others, but spoke forcefully in a tone that Orihime found oddly comforting. He nailed the other in the face. ôYour friend is in danger! All you need to know is that you can use us to defeat that thing!ö
The redhead nodded and frowned at the thing. It was leering at her. ôWell, what are you waiting for, brat! If you want to save your friend you've got to go through me first!ö She spread her remaining arms and slid towards her on the ground. ôI'll just kill you and be done with it!ö
ôJust use your mind, and say what I say!ö said the female who appeared to be the leader. ôThat hurt by the way!ö she snapped at the male who had kicked her.
ôGood,ö he responded. ôIt's coming!ö
The monster dove at her. Orihime said what the fairies told her to say. ôHinakigu, Baigon, Lily! Santen Kesshun! I repel thee!ö
The monster hit a triangle shaped barrier face first and crumpled into itself. ôUgh! What? What is this? A shield?ö
ôIt's my turn!ö snapped the irritable male. ôI repel both sides. I break through the enemy, put up a shield inside, and repel the combined space. In other words, I split the enemy in to! My name is Tsubaki! Say it now!ö
The monster had recovered and noticed the shield had vanished. ôInteresting, but not good enough!ö She charged again.
ôKoten Zanshun!ö
The monster froze as an arc of power slammed into her face. She opened her mouth to scream, and fell in two along the middle of her face and body before the sound escaped.
Orihime gasped as she saw the monster fall. ôTatsuki!ö she cried as she ran towards where her friend had gone.
OooOOooOO
Tatsuki screamed as her arms became pinned to the ground. The thing had stabbed her four times at once. Once in each shoulder, and again in her elbows. She struggled and writhed, unable to do anything but twist her torso as the creature removed it's claws. She was helpless, unable to move at all. ôNo.ö
Her eyes grew wide as the thing appeared before her. A monstrous spider thing, white and black, and with a cruel grin on it's partially human face. It reached for her with her claws and lifted her into the air. ôOh. I can taste your suffering! Ha ha ha ha!ö
She gasped and twisted, unable to free herself, her arms and legs useless. ôStop! Let me go!ö
ôLet you go? Before the fun has even started! Ha ha ha haaa!ö
Tatsuke looked down in horror. Off of the creature's back. several long slender tentacles began to move. They wrapped themselves around her arms and legs. Three of them floated free between herself and the monster.
ôI bet you're wondering what these are for, aren't you?ö it asked her with a cruel looking smile. The ends of the tentacles opened up.
Tatsuki went pale as she realized what they looked like. She struggled again, but it was futile. ôNo. No please.ö
The monster nodded. ôUh huh, but that's not the best part.ö The things began to ooze from the tips, and long slender looking needle like stingers slid out of the tip of each one. ôIt won't be so bad at first. You might even enjoy it a little...but...when I get started. You'll scream for death. They'll find your body and you'll just be another rape victim, sliced to ribbons by her attacker. That's how you'll be remembered, and they'll never find the one who did it.ö
The girl was as white as a ghost. She screamed in horror as they began to move towards her slowly. One of them pushing against her cheek, and the others rubbing on her legs.
ôWe'll take it slow. I like to enjoy myself, even though I can't feel it myself. I'll enjoy watching you feel every moment. Don't go thinking you can just pass out either. You see, the fluid that it excretes will keep you awake. It heightens the senses of the living and...ö There was a loud crash, as if someone had just kicked in the door behind her.
Tatsuki screamed. Her ears were ringing from the loud sound that echoed through the room. She hit the ground and landed on her side. It was painful and jarred her badly. ôWhat?ö
The creature was clutching at it's face and growled in anger. ôWho the hell?ö
ôFunny you should say that,ö said a familiar voice.
Tatsuki gasped as she managed to roll onto her back and look up.
Akuma was standing in the busted doorway with his cruel looking grin. ôNo one gets to torment Tatsuchan but me.ö
The girl's eyes went wide as she looked at what was in his hands. The boy was holding two firearms and leveled them at the monster. ôOh shit.ö She couldn't move her arms to cover her ears as he started firing.
The Hollow screamed and jerked about as the boy fired repeatedly. He kept shooting driving it back into the wall. Well past when he should have run out of bullets in fact.
Tatsuki continued to scream and squeezed her eyes shut as the boy stepped over her into the room. She gasped as he stopped shooting and pushed herself back with her shoulders towards the door. ôWhat? What is this?ö
Akuma didn't look back at her. Pieces of the monster's tentacles littered the ground, and it was bleeding at various points on it's body. ôNormally I wouldn't care, but I'd miss teasing you if you died. Wouldn't get to do it when I went back home either. A pity. I'll just have to settle for what I can get while you're still alive I guess.ö
ôYou bastard! You think those toys will hurt me!?ö snarled the beast as it's wounds began to close.
ôNot really, I'm just playing with you,ö said the boy arrogantly. His creepy grin etched onto his face like stone. He opened his eyes and it widened ever so slightly. ôI don't want to be too quick. Your suffering is only just beginning.ö
ôTatsuki!ö cried Orihime as she dashed around the corner and rushed up to the scene. ôTatsuki! Are you all right?ö
ôShe'll live,ö said Akuma in an amused tone. ôMight have to take a few days off to recover though.ö He leveled his cold glare at the thing in front of him.
The spider monster had gone quiet and appeared cautious. ôWh...what are you? You're no human.ö
The boy chuckled. ôNow, now. That's supposed to be a secret.ö He wagged his finger at it. In his other hand, he now had a broadsword hefted onto his shoulder.
Both girls looked at him with wide eyes and gasped. ôWh...what?ö muttered Tatsuki.
Orihime scowled at the monster. ôYou. You did this to Tatsuki.ö
The thing snarled at her. ôOnce I finish with this scum, you're next girlie. My, such a pretty one too.ö
Akuma chuckled. ôMad at him are you? Well, you might like this, then again, it might just send you running off screaming!ö His voice changed and a dark violet red aura started burning around him. ôPathetic creature, you still don't get it do you?ö
The monster looked at him with wide eyes. ôWhat?ö
ôI'm here, to drag you to hell. I can see your sins, see the darkness in your soul. You...belong to me now.ö He pointed his sword at the thing and his grin became malevolent. ôFor the rest of eternity, you are my bitch!ö The demonic boy took two steps forward and slashed with his sword.
The hollow's mask was split in two, and it screamed. The body evaporated, but reformed again in front of him.
The two girls were clutching each other, looking on with wide eyes. Each one too horrified to speak.
In front of them was the spirit of a man. He was on his hands and knees with tears flowing down his face. ôWhat? Where am I?ö
Akuma stabbed his sword into the ground. ôAt the gateway.ö
The man cringed back. ôNo! Mercy! Please! I...ö
The demonic figure glared down at him. It was possessive and almost lustful. ôThought you could escape eternity by becoming a Hollow did you? Thought you were free? I'm afraid not. You've only postponed the inevitable, and now it's time to pay the piper!ö He picked up his sword again and jammed the hilt into the spirit's forehead.
The two girls were shaking in terror as a huge gate, much too large for the inside of the shed, appeared behind the thing.
ôWhat...what is that?ö muttered Orihime in shock.
ôThe doorway home,ö replied Akuma as he looked at it with a wide eyed evil glee. ôThe gateway to hell.ö
The spirit screamed as it stood up and tried to stagger away from it. It's feet were sluggish and it was pulled towards it by an invisible force. ôNo! Nooooo!ö A gigantic hand holding a tanto knife reached out and impaled it through it's chest, dragging it inside the swirling vortex of fire and darkness beyond. The spirit screamed and struggled, reaching out and pleading. ôHelp me! Please! Help meeee!ö
Both girls simply looked on in shock. Unable to pry their eyes away from the gateway.
Akuma spoke to it as it remained open after pulling the thing through. ôTake good care of him, Mom.ö
A horrible voice echoed from inside the gate. ôMy son. Everything goes as it should?ö
The boy nodded, his features more human again and returned to his usual emotionless smile. ôOf course. Yuzu sends her regards, I'm annoying my brother, and Karin...well, she doesn't trust me. Dad misses you as well.ö
ôGood, very good,ö said the voice in an almost soothing tone. ôIt pleases me that he suffers with my absence. Take good care of the others, I look forward to meeting them. Little Yuzu is doing so well, tell her she has pleased me.ö
Akuma nodded and looked as if he was having a phone conversation. ôI will. Enjoy that scum, I might take a bit of time to torment him myself when I come back. If I care enough to remember.ö
ôVery good, farewell, my son. Until next time.ö The great gate closed.
Akuma turned and smiled at the two girls cowering and shivering in the doorway to the shed. ôWell. It's good to hear she's doing well.ö
ôWhat...what the hell was that?ö gasped Tatsuki.
ôMy mother,ö replied Akuma. He squatted down. ôYou know, Akuma isn't just a name. It's what I really am.ö
Both of them jolted in shock and looked at him in horror. Neither one spoke and pulled away from him.
The white haired boy looked at Orihime. ôYou know, Ichigo is my twin brother.ö
The girl swallowed. ôHe's, not like you.ö
Akuma smiled. ôDon't delude yourself, that voice you just heard is his mother too. We're the same type you know. He and I are both, less than human. In fact, we're not even half human. He doesn't know that though. I'm sure he'll figure it out sooner or later.ö
Orihime felt her heart leap into her throat. ôWhat?ö
Akuma shrugged. ôCome on. I'll help you out I guess. We shouldn't just leave her here. She's going to need some time to recover from her injuries.ö His face fell a little. ôIt looks serious too. I'm not sure she'll ever completely recover. He cut her tendons. I doubt you'll be able to compete anymore, Tatsuchan.ö He actually looked a little sorry to say it.
The girl squeezed her eyes shut. ôDon't touch me!ö She shied away.
Orihime hefted her arm over her shoulder. ôHe...saved your life.ö
ôHe's not human!ö cried the girl as she looked at her in shock.
The boy didn't seem bothered and took her other arm. ôWell, neither is Ichikun. You get along with him all right. Besides, I only saved you so I could keep teasing you. You take it so well, always over reacting. It'd be a shame if I let you die. Then I'd only have my brother to torment that way.ö
ôAsshole,ö growled the girl as she glared at him. ôI bet you knew all along, and just waited until the last minute to help me out.
Akuma set her down on the grass with Orihime. He paused and looked at the redhead. ôHuh. Well, you're right. I was expecting you to be dead. Figured it'd drive my brother nuts.ö
The redhead gasped and looked up at him. ôWhat?ö
He blinked and cocked his head. ôWhat the hell are those things?ö
There were six fairy like creatures fluttering around Orihime. The girl frowned at him and blushed. ôMy...power.ö
ôWeird,ö he muttered as he backed off. He had no idea what to make of them.
ôWhat? You just left her to die then?ö snapped one of the little male ones. He had a mask over his face. ôYou bastard. Orihime! Let me...ö
She pinched at his wings and pulled him back. ôHe did...save Tatsuki.ö
Two of them fluttered up to her face. ôWe can help her now!ö It was the two females who hadn't done anything yet. The leader and the small quiet one. ôBoth of our abilities is to repel the inner shield. We can repel the damage within a limited area.ö
ôRepel?ö muttered Akuma as he looked on. He had been planning on walking off to leave them stewing on what he'd said. Sowing seeds of doubt about his brother within the minds of both of them. This was far too interesting to ignore.
The head fairy continued to talk. ôWe care return the state of the one inside the shield to their state before taking damage.ö
Tatsuki was having the weirdest day of her life. ôWhen am I going to wake up from this crazy dream anyway?ö It was giving her a headache.
ôCall our names, I am Shounou, she is Ayame.ö
ôShounou, Ayame! Shouten Kishun. I repel thee!ö
A field formed around Tatsuki. The girl relaxed and closed her eyes.
Akuma looked on and frowned at the scene over her shoulder. ôWhat? That...that's not healing. It's...time reversal...no...it's different. What the?ö
Tatsuki was healing quickly, her injuries vanishing as if they were never there.
The demon half smirked. ôI see. Very interesting. Banishment, repel indeed. Orihime, you've just become very interesting.ö
The girl gasped and looked over her shoulder. ôWha?ö
Akuma had his normal smirk and his arms were crossed. ôHeh. I suggest you watch your back. That power of yours is more valuable than you think. Still, it's got nothing to do with my purpose here.ö
ôPurpose?ö She clenched her fist and bit her lip. ôWait. Why...why are you here?ö
The boy looked at her out of the corner of his eyes. ôI'm looking for something. Humans don't need to concern themselves with it.ö
The girl stood up and faced him. ôWhat does Kurosaki have to do with this?ö
ôIchikun? Well, nothing really.ö He turned away. ôYou still care for him, even knowing? Huh. Interesting girl, very interesting. I suspect he'll have his hands full with you.ö
The girl blushed. ôWhat do you mean?ö
ôYou'll figure it out. It was unwise to flaunt such a power so openly. It might just cost you one day. I've no interest in it now, but regardless. You should take care kid.ö
She staggered back at his cold expression. He wasn't grinning at her, and leveled his eyes over his shoulder. ôI won't let you hurt, Kurosaki.ö
Akuma started walking away. ôYou don't need to concern yourself with him. Still, I think, you'd better hope he feels the same way about you. See you around, princess.ö
Tatsuki sat up and looked at her arms and legs. They were as good as new. She was in shock and looked at her friend. ôWhat...was that?ö
The redhead shrugged. ôI'm not sure. I just found out I could do that. I'm glad you're all right though.ö
The short haired girl nodded. ôYeah. What was that about? I could see you talking, but I couldn't hear.ö
Orihime frowned and glanced over her shoulder. ôI'm not sure. He helped you, I don't think he's all bad. I don't know though. He said my power was interesting. It made me a little nervous.ö
ôI'll say. I guess I owe him, but he's a jerk,ö her friend was clearly unsettled by the prospect of owing him. ôI still don't trust him.ö She knew what he said about waiting, but she wasn't entirely sure he was being honest about it. She had a feeling he wasn't, but couldn't be sure.
The big busted girl helped her too her feet, and she ended up bumping into her chest and bouncing off. The short haired girl didn't think anything of it and steadied herself on her shoulders. ôI'm...I'm all right.ö
Orihime looked at her friend. After a moment of standing there in each other's arms, they both slumped down out cold. Exhausted from their ordeal and drained completely.
A figure holding a very large boy in a fireman's carry walked up to the scene and frowned. Urahara gave a small sigh and looked at the pair. He glanced over his shoulder and looked in the direction Akuma had gone. ôHuh. I wonder what that guy is up too? Never expected to see him perform a soul burial. Didn't know his kind even could.ö He looked at the pair and sighed. He could only take one more. He ended up hefting Orihime over his shoulder. The other girl would be fine, all the nearby Hollows were destroyed, and her spiritual energy had been drained. It would take a little while for it to recover. ôI'll have to send someone to take care of her before she wakes up.ö
ôI'll take care of it.ö
The fallen Shinigami froze and went rigid with the two teens on his shoulders. ôOh. Still here are you?ö He relaxed and didn't look back.
ôYeah. The redhead is interesting. Strange powers and all. I suspect you saw enough to realize that.ö Akuma was leaning against the wall.
ôYou'll be late for class.ö
ôNot going back today, it's too interesting out here today. I'll take her friend home, she'll be safe enough.ö
Urahara nodded. ôI'm still not sure what you're up too. Still, I suppose it's none of my business.ö
Akuma nodded. ôYou'd be right. It doesn't involve these kids. Just a word of advice.ö
The former Shinigami turned his head. ôYes?ö
ôStay away from my brother. They'll be coming for her soon, and I know he's tempting. I'll take care of that, you can busy yourself with his friends while I handle the rest.ö
Urahara turned back. ôThat's up to him. You know, he has two natures to choose from. Neither one is human, but he could become a powerful Shinigami. Might even give the old man a run for his money in a hundred years or so.ö
The man froze, there was a blade at his throat and Akuma was glaring down the length of him at it. ôThat isn't a request. He's mine, and you know damn well I can make him stronger than any Shinigami.ö
The man sidestepped and appeared behind him. ôI know. Still, you know you can't change his nature. I know a bit about your kind. His nature, will always be in opposition to yours.ö
Akuma chuckled. ôI know. That's what makes it interesting. Get in the way, and I'll stop you. We each have our own darkness. Yuzu and Karin are just beginning to discover this as well.ö
Urahara looked up at the sky. ôI've always wondered, do you care? I mean, about family? Demons behavior can be a little strange to those on the outside.ö
The boy started walking down the path behind the school. ôIn our own way. He's my brother, and I will make him strong, whether he wants it or not. You can make yourself useful if you want, but he's mine. I will show him a path to a power even one as strong as you cannot imagine.ö He rounded the corner on the opposite side of the building.
Urahara smirked and started walking with the teens on his shoulders. ôHuh. Learn something new...every...day...ö
Akuma was ahead of him, walking out the school gates. The boy paused long enough to smirk and continue on his way with his blade resting on his shoulder.
The former Shinigami knew that he was letting him know that he was not impressed by his Shunpo. He scowled a little and continued on his way. ôInteresting guy. Wonder what his story is?ö He smirked to himself as he walked unhindered by the weight of the pair. ôMaybe I'll find out by the time this is all over?ö
cont...
Part 8
The Infestation.
OooOOooOO
It was an unusually quiet day in Karakura town for most of the population. The insects and birds had gone quiet, and it left an unsettled feeling across the town that no one could quite pinpoint the cause of. Many people could feel an innate wrongness in the air, others never noticed. It was still, as if time had stood still, and left most people in a slightly more sour mood than normal. Barely noticeable to most of the population.
Ichigo dashed across the rooftops, he jumped into the air slashing an airborne creature with his spirit weapon. Sailing over the heads of unaware pedestrians across the rooftops. His spirit sword was gripped in his hand as he landed and continued his path, hacking and slashing at the white creatures of various sizes and shapes as he moved. They were weak hollows, but there were a lot of them. Stalling his progress as he dashed towards the Elementary School where his two sisters attended. ôDamn it. This is taking forever.ö He wasn't even keeping count of the number of hollows he was destroying. ôI'm gonna kick that bastard's face in when this is over.ö
OooOOooOO
ôFifty seven, fifty eight,ö muttered Uryuu as he kept count and continued to pull spiritual energy from the air and into his weapon. His finger was becoming sore from drawing, a little blood was dripping through the wrappings on his index as he pulled back. ôA few more than expected, but no problems. I will not lose!ö
OooOOooOO
ôTatsuki, what did you bring for lunch?ö Orihime smiled as she sat down in the shade of a tree with her friend. It was a beautiful day, and despite the strange silence, they had opted to eat on the grounds outside the classroom.
The short haired girl frowned at her. ôI told you twice all ready. Are you all right?ö
The girl nodded. ôSorry, I guess I'm distracted. It's...so quiet today. Isn't it a little strange?ö
Her friend cocked her head. ôI guess. What do you mean?ö
ôI don't hear any birds, and the insects have all gone quiet. It's strange.ö The redhead shuddered. ôMaybe...we should eat inside?ö
Tatsuki frowned at that. ôHuh. Now that you mention it, yeah. It is pretty quiet. What's the big deal though?ö She did feel a little off, but didn't want to say anything and make Orihime any more nervous. ôRelax would you? Just eat, and we'll head back inside. I'm starved.ö She looked up at her friend.
Orihime was looking up at the top of the school building.
ôHuh?ö her friend followed her gaze. ôWhat the hell is that weirdo doing? He'll get in trouble if anyone sees him.ö
Akuma was standing on the railing on the corner of the roof. He was looking out at the sky with his odd grin. He wasn't wearing his uniform, and had a long black trench coat on.
Orihime gasped as she noticed something odd. The boy had a sword in his hand, a big one. The boy turned his gaze down towards her and his expression didn't change. He simply turned away and walked back onto the roof. ôSomething...is wrong.ö
Tatsuki scowled at her. ôWhat is with you today? Everything is fine.ö
The redhead looked at her with a frightened expression. ôSomething just feels wrong. I'm not sure what it is.ö
Her friend pushed up. ôAll right, we'll eat inside. Come on then.ö She stood up and dusted off her skirt. ôCome on then.ö She paused and looked around. ôHuh? She's...where?ö Orihime was gone, vanished from right next to her. ôOrihime? Hey, Orihime!ö She took a few steps and glanced around. ôWhere did she go? Oi! Orihime! Where are you?ö She looked about, seeing nothing and started to jog. ôShe can't have just...ö
A flash of orange red hair caught her attention at the edge of the building, rounding the corner. ôHey! How did she get way over there?ö She started jogging towards it.
She never looked up. Orihime had terror in her eyes, dozens of hands were holding her body still, and covered her mouth. A monstrous looking woman's face moved up next to hers. ôHeh. Poor girl, but...I could say the same of you.ö
The unfortunate girl was being held in the tree branches as the monster's body wrapped around it's branches. It was a centipede like creature with a woman's torso instead of a head. The legs were human arms for half of the body, and twisted legs and feet for the lower half. It was easily ten meters long, and had a hole in it's chest where it's heart would have been. Orihime struggled, trying to call out to her friend and warn her. The top half of it's face was covered by an inhuman looking skull, with the lower jaw exposed. The mouth had black lips, and sharp teeth.
Tatsuki vanished around the corner and her struggles grew stronger.
ôWell, you're quite a girl. You can see me can't you, and hear me? How...wonderful.ö The thing tightened it's grip and four of the hands wrapped around the girl's throat. ôDelicious!ö It had a dark grin on it's face as it turned her around to face her, putting it's face up to hers. ôYou're quite fortunate you know, if you're good I'll be quick. A few moments of discomfort and it will all be over.ö The thing looked towards the corner and mocked pity. ôPoor thing, Anakaris likes to play with his food. He was a serial murderer in life, and a rapist. He'll torment her, paralyze her, and sate his hungers before he consumes her. If I finish with you quickly enough, I may just watch. It's very entertaining.ö
Orihime's eyes shook with terror. ôNo! Tatsuki!ö screamed her mind. The creature's hands began to grow tight around her throat.
ôI'm not sure I'll have time, you'll be quite the meal I think!ö The monster's eyes grew wide as she reveled in dark pleasure. ôHeh. I suppose I can't complain. Her spiritual power is pathetic compared to yours. I'm very fortunate, too bad for you.ö
OooOOooOO
Tatsuki rounded the corner and slid to a stop. It was the shaded side of the building, a long shadow was cast across the grounds, with a small equipment shed ahead of her. ôOri...Orihime?ö she muttered. The air felt chilled, cooler than it should. ôWhere did she go? I know I saw her.ö
In the doorway to the equipment shed ahead, she saw another flash of orange hair, vanishing into the door. She walked up to it and pulled the door open a bit. ôOrihime? Are you in here? Say something.ö She took a few steps inside. It was about twenty feet square, filled with mats, posts, sports equipment, and bags filled with half inflated balls. She could feel her nerves starting to tingle, growing on edge as goose bumps crawled across her skin. Her eyes went wide as she stopped cold. Suspended on a string in front of her was a tuft of orange hair. It appeared to be floating, suspended from the ceiling. In front of her eyes it turned gray.
The girl took a staggering step back. ôWhat the?ö
ôHeh. You...can't see me can you? A shame, you're spiritual power is stronger than most, but you've got no idea what's coming do you?ö The thing was standing in front of her, no more than five feet in front of her face. It had the body of a spider, with long sharp legs that ended in barbed bladed edges. It's torso was that of a man, with a bone like mask over it's face, and sharp teeth. Instead of arms, it had two more spider like appendages, tipped with sharp finger like claws.
Tatsuki narrowed her eyes. She could see something, but it was fuzzy, ethereal, and had no definite form to it. ôWhat is...ö She was cut off as she flew onto her back, a strike across her face from nowhere laid her out. ôWhat?ö she muttered in horror. She screamed as a stabbing pain jabbed into her calf. An open wound appeared out of nothing and began to ooze blood. ôShit! What the hell!ö she grabbed and felt something invisible that was stabbing her leg. It felt bony, and sharp in her grip, giving her a few gashes in her hands. It pulled out of her leg and she screamed in pain, scrambling to her feet as soon as she was free.
The girl put up her fists, her eyes wide with horror as she staggered back, favoring one leg.
ôYes, put up a fight, struggle!ö hissed the thing. She couldn't hear it though and looked about. Her eyes focused on the mass of invisible something, like a distortion in the air. ôWhat is that thing?ö
ôSo, you can see where I'm at?ö snarled the creature. ôThat's something, a better meal than most of the pathetic creatures in this place. Saanide and I will have fun picking them off one by one.ö It stalked towards her. ôYou can't run anymore, there's no way to escape.ö It lashed out with it's clawed fingers.
The girl ducked and rolled aside, getting to her feet in a shaky manner. She narrowed her eyes and noticed that some of the equipment was tossed aside. ôI don't know what you are, but you're not getting me without a fight!ö she charged forward punching at the monster.
The thing grunted, it had actually felt the blow to it's torso. It was weak though, and mildly irritating. ôWell, aren't we something. Heh.ö It attacked again, but found it's strikes blocked. It wasn't trying very hard, poking and toying with her.
Tatsuke started hefting objects in the room at the thing. They were swatted aside, and she could keep a bead on where it was, but it was without form, and she couldn't see what was knocking them away. ôShit.ö The girl started edging towards the exit. She picked up a pole, a piece of a net used for volleyball.
ôSo sweet. I always liked strong women. They are the most fun to break!ö The creature stalked towards her.
Tatsuke slid open the door behind her and backed out, poking at the thing stalking towards her with the pole. It was ripped from her hands and became impaled in the opposite wall. Not knowing what had hit her, she fell to the ground feeling her leg was grabbed. She fell on her back and screamed, kicking at what was grabbing her with her other injured leg. The strikes were weak, and each strike sent new waves of pain into her body. She didn't stop though and cried out in rage. ôLet go you...ö Again, her cries were stopped as another injury appeared in her other leg. She tried to roll over and gripped at the ground, creating drag marks in the dirt. ôNo!ö It pulled her back into the shed, and the door closed, muffling her screams within.
OooOOooOO
Keigo looked over at where Akuma was standing on the corner of the roof. ôMan, what's with that guy?ö
Mizuiro shrugged and looked over at him. ôI dunno. He's just staring off into space. I guess he's not scared of falling.ö
Sado was with them, and was sitting against the wall eating his lunch in silence. He looked over at the boy, he had his usual creepy grin. He didn't say anything out loud and turned his eyes away. ôDoes he feel this uneasiness as well?ö
Without a word, Akuma turned away and walked towards the entrance to the building.
Sado's eyes went wide. The boy was holding a sword in his hand, a very large one. He wasn't dressed in his uniform either. ôWhat?ö
Mizuiro shrugged. ôI dunno, that guy is just weird.ö
Keigo coughed after choking on a bit of rice for a moment. ôDid you see that?ö He looked at the other two.
The black haired boy smiled at him and shook his head. ôSee what?ö
His friend gasped and looked panicked. ôHe had a sword! A big one!ö
ôAre you sure?ö muttered Kojima in confusion. ôDid you see anything Yasutora?ö
The larger boy frowned. ôI'm not sure.ö
Keigo pointed at him. ôYou did see it didn't you! I almost didn't notice because of that big coat he had! What's he doing with something like that at school? Oh, man. Maybe he's gone crazy, and is planning on chopping up the class! I hope he's not mad at me.ö
Mizuiro shook his head. ôI doubt it. He'll get expelled for sure if he gets caught with something like that.ö
Chad frowned and looked thoughtful. ôSomething is going on.ö His eyes narrowed as something landed in the middle of the rooftop. He and his two classmates were the only students up there that day. ôHuh?ö He couldn't see what it was. He just, knew it was there somehow. He could see where it was, and about how large it was, but that was all his senses could show him.
The other two looked at him. ôHey. You all right, Sado? You look a bit pale.ö Mizuiro was confused by his sudden and rather surprised expression.
ôSee! He did see it! Maybe we should skip the rest of the day? That guy is weird and crazy. He'll kill us all!ö cried Keigo.
Chad stood up and moved past them, putting himself between the thing and his friends. ôSomething...is there.ö
The creature focused on the trio. ôHeh. Pathetic, but I suppose it will have to do.ö It had a mass of tentacles as it's lower body, like those of a squid. With two longer appendages with flattened tips. The upper half of it's body was insect like, with two Praying Mantis like claws instead of arms. It's chest had a large hole in it, and the mask that covered it's face had two long fang like mandibles poking out of the sides of it. ôThe big one seems the most interesting, but why waste the other two, even as pathetic as they are.ö Insect wings opened up behind it's back and it floated into the air.
Chad gasped as the thing hovered above the roof and moved towards them. ôWhat?ö
The monster sneered at them all. ôThey don't even see death coming, but the big one seems to have enough spiritual power to have noticed me. His tentacles lashed out, wrapping all three of them up.
Keigo gasped as he felt something around his neck. His arm became pulled tight as he was lifted off his feet and into the air. ôGah! What...what is this?ö
ôWhat's going on!?ö cried Mizuiro as he found himself in the same position. He was tugging at invisible bonds at his neck and waist. ôSomething's got me!ö
Chad slid forward, but wasn't lifted into the air. He pushed back with his legs, struggling against whatever had just wrapped around his arms, and felt another appendage about his waist. ôThis...ö He could see that something was holding onto him, but it was just a fuzzy blur of air to him. ôThis...Kojima, Asano!ö
The pair was struggling to breathe and kicked their legs about in the air as they hung there. ôLet go!ö gasped Keigo.
ôSomething's got me!ö gasped Mizuiro through his chokes.
OooOOooOO
At Karakura Elementary School, Yuzu and Karin were walking back towards their class. Each holding a bento they had bought from the lunch room.
The brunette girl smiled at her sister. ôWe should eat outside.ö
Karin shrugged. ôWe're almost back to the classroom though. Maybe tomorrow?ö
Her sister shrugged. ôAll right. I guess.ö She paused and looked around. ôIt's quiet.ö
The black haired girl nodded. ôYeah. I noticed it too. Where is everyone?ö The hallway had a few students standing in it. A couple of boys were down the hall and pulling things from their lockers. A bit further down, a few boys were standing at a window looking outside. It was unusually vacant for the lunch period though.
Yuzu nodded. ôWell, we were almost last in line.ö She pointed at her bento. It was cheap plastic, and the school sold them. ôI'm making lunch for us tomorrow though. I just thought it would be nice to buy them today just for a change of pace.ö
Her sister seemed to accept that. ôYeah. I guess everyone else has already found a place to eat.ö She stopped and froze. ôWhat the hell?ö
Yuzu blinked and followed her gaze. ôHey. I see something...ö It was fuzzy and white. Like looking at something through an out of focus lens. ôWhat is that?ö
It was a large cat like creature, about eight feet long and four feet high. It's face was covered in a bone like mask, and it stalked into the hall from one of the windows. Passing right through the glass as if the window was open.
ôShit,ö said Karin as she dropped her bento and grabbed her sister by the hand.
The thing's head snapped around and glared at them. It's eyes narrowed as it focused on the pair in front of it.
ôWhat's going on? What is that?ö muttered Yuzu in confusion.
ôRun!ö snapped Karin as she dragged her sister off, forcing the girl to drop her own lunch.
ôHey! My lunch!ö cried the girl.
ôIt's not worth your life! Move!ö snapped her sister urgently. The other students in the hall looked confused as the two girls raced by them.
ôHey, you'll get in trouble for running in the hall!ö called one of the boys they moved by.
The girls ignored him and continued to run, turning down the stairs. The beast was lumbering after them, picking up speed as it went.
ôIt looks like a dog or something,ö said Yuzu as she looked over her shoulder as her sister pulled her around the corner and down the stairs.
ôIf it catches us it will kill us!ö snapped her sister angrily. ôIt's a big cat! Now run!ö She shoved the girl in front of her and pushed at her back.
The pair slid onto the next floor down. The exit was on the other end of the hall.
Karin pulled her sister aside and went for a nearby closet. She ducked inside and pushed her sister back. Both of them gasping for breath. She left the door open a crack and peered out into the hall.
The thing bounded down the stairs and looked around, panning it's head from left to right as it growled in frustration. It put it's nose to the ground and appeared to try to pick up the trail.
ôShit,ö gasped Karin. ôWe won't be able to hide here long. We've got to distract it so we can get away.ö
Yuzu frowned at that and nodded. ôIt's dangerous then?ö
Karin looked at her in disbelief. ôYes! You remember that thing we saw Ichigo fighting when we went to visit Mom? I think it's one of those monsters!ö She shook her by her shoulders. ôIt will eat us if it finds us!ö
The brunette nodded and had a serious expression on her face. ôOh.ö She shrugged. ôWell, we should get away then.ö
Karin hung her head. ôThat's what I've been trying to do.ö She walked over to the door and peered outside. The hallway appeared empty. ôI think it's gone. Come on.ö
The pair walked out, Karin practically dragging her twin along behind her.
ôI was wondering how long you were going to wait in there,ö said a cold voice.
Both girls froze and turned their heads back. The beast was sitting against the wall behind the door, looking at them. It cocked it's head. ôI'll tell you what, I'm bored. I'll give you a head start.ö It crouched and waved it's rear in the air. ôStart running.ö
ôCrap,ö muttered Karin as she pulled her sister along behind her and ran as fast as her legs would go.
The pair dashed outside the doors to the school and slid to a stop outside. The monster bounded outside of one of the windows and landed beside them. They both backed away, Karin clearly more nervous than her sister. Her eyes were wide with terror.
ôThe chase is fun, but you can't outrun me on such puny legs. Don't give up though, you might make it,ö sneered the thing.
Yuzu was panting for breath and gasping. ôKarin, I'm tired.ö
Her sister grabbed her hand and pulled her along. ôShut up and run! This isn't P.E. That thing will kill us!ö
The brunette girl couldn't keep up with her sister. She tripped as she was pulled and brought Karin down to the ground with her. The dark haired girl slid a bit further away and looked over her shoulder.
The monster bounded forward, landing on top of the fallen Yuzu. The girl screeched and coughed as it's front paws landed on her chest.
ôNo!ö cried Karin in horror as she staggered to her feet.
Yuzu had the wind knocked out of her and struggled on the ground under it's paws. She pushed against it's toes with her hands and didn't look like she could move.
The beast snarled. ôWell, it was fun, but I should finish you off before the other gets away!ö It opened it's mouth and bit into Yuzu's shoulder.
The younger girl's eyes went wide and she opened her mouth as she felt the teeth sink in. ôI...ö
ôYuzu! No!ö Karin screamed as she ran forward, not thinking about what she was doing.
The beast released her sister and swiped a paw at her as she jumped into a kick at it's face in an attempt to pin her down as well. ôYou fool! You might have...ö It blinked in surprise as the girl twisted in the air around it's paw. Her irises had become slits and a dark look had formed on her face as she wrapped her arms around the paw, kicked her foot under it's jaw and swung around it's forearm like a gymnast. At the apex of her flip she let go and landed in a crouch a few feet away. Her head snapped up and she snarled at the thing. ôYou...get the hell away from my sister!ö She charged on the ground this time, rearing her arm back.
The Hollow was shaking it's head, clearly surprised by the force of the blow. ôWhat the?ö It still had the other girl pinned under it's paw though. Yuzu was gasping, and it didn't notice that her eyes had changed as well.
Karin dashed right up into it's face and slammed her fist into it's nose. The Hollow was thrown back, rolling over itself. It screeched as it slid to a stop, feeling stabbing pain along it's side. The thing grunted as it tried to move, looking at it's side. ôWhat? What are you?ö It's eyes turned towards the two girls.
Karin had her fist extended still, and a trail of ice shards were poking up from the ground that seemed to explode into a half buried spiked ball right in front of it. It's left front and rear paw were frozen inside, and it's side was impaled on several of them. A long slender tail whipped back and fourth behind her, and her skin had become a light violet in color. It seemed to flicker between the darker color and a more human tone as she stood there gasping. ôWhat?ö she looked at her fist in shock. ôI..I did?ö
Yuzu sat up, a dark smile on her own face. ôKarin, I...I can see it!ö she hissed at her sister with an excited and dangerous looking grin. ôSo, that's what it looks like then?ö
Her sister looked at her twin and gasped. She had also sprouted a long slender tail and her skin had become reddish in color. Her eye teeth had elongated into small fangs, and her irises had become very clearly defined slits. Her eyes had gone from brown, to completely yellow. There were no more whites in her eyes. ôWhat? Yuzu?ö gasped her sister.
The other girl chuckled. ôI was trying to tell you, we don't need to run away. Not from this thing. It's weak.ö She balled up her fist and it became engulfed in flames.
Karin staggered back. ôWhat happened to you? Y-Yuzu?ö
Her sister glanced over her shoulder. ôIf you weren't so afraid of our brother, he would have showed you too.ö She narrowed her eyes at the trapped monster.
ôWhat are you?ö It snarled at her, posing and trying to scare her. ôRelease me! I'll destroy you both.ö
Yuzu shook her head. ôI don't think so.ö She stalked forward flexing her fingers as her hand burned with fire.
ôB..brother?ö muttered Karin. ôYuzu stop! You...you look different.ö
The other girl hissed a chuckle. ôSo do you. I've never done this before. It's kind of cool don't you think?ö
Her sister gasped and looked at her hands. She fell to her knees. Her skin was now dark purple, and her fingers ended in little black claws that weren't quite fingernails. ôWhat? What is this?ö
Yuzu snarled as she jumped into the air and thrust her hand down. The Hollow howled as the strike burned right through it's body. It twitched and writhed, cut in half across it's torso.
ôNo! Let me go! I won't...I'll leave! I'll find another. I'll never return here again! I swear!ö
Yuzu frowned at the thing. ôI know you won't.ö She reared back her fist and punched it in the mask. There was an explosion as her fist connected.
Karin shielded herself with her arms as little pieces of the mask rained down around her. ôWhat? What is this?ö
Yuzu turned and smiled at her as the monster vanished. The ice was melting in her wake as she walked towards her with her hand still burning. ôIt's our blood.ö The flame faded as she approached her sister and gave her usual warm smile. It was unsettling on her new face. It looked wrong somehow. ôAkuma has been showing me. It's called Demon Arts. We can do it naturally, it's instinct. It's easier for us, because we're female. Boys are tougher and like to fight. Girls are different though, we use power like this more easily.ö
The girl looked at her with wide eyes. ôAkuma...showed you this?ö
Yuzu's skin faded back to it's more human color. ôHe said how I look might change if I got too excited. It's never happened before though. That was so cool! I could see it and everything!ö
Karin looked down at her hands and gasped. She'd returned to her normal color. ôThat was weird. Yuzu, you had a tail.ö
ôMom has a tail,ö she replied with a shrug.
The dark haired girl frowned a bit. ôHow do you know?ö
ôAkuma showed me what she looked like. He's pretty cool, really. I don't get why you don't like him.ö Yuzu cocked her head.
Karin hung her head. ôYeah. I feel strange though. Different somehow.ö
Yuzu nodded. ôYeah. Me too. It was awesome!ö
Karin grabbed her sister's arm and looked at her shoulder. ôThat thing bit you, are you all right?ö
She looked at where the wound was. ôIt got better. We're not as tough as Ichigo and Akuma, but we're not as weak as humans either. We're much faster and stronger, and if we work really hard, we'll be faster than Ichigo or Akuma.ö She seemed very cheerful, and there was now a patch of mud on the ground. ôCome on. I'm still hungry, and we probably don't have much of our lunch break left.ö
The dark haired girl frowned at her and nodded. ôSo, he taught you this stuff?ö
Yuzu nodded looking quite proud of herself. ôYeah. You never talk to him though. You avoid him all the time.ö
Her sister scowled. ôI still don't trust him, I don't think you should either. There's something off about that guy.ö They walked back into the building side by side.
The brunette twin stuck her tongue out at her. ôHe's our brother. There's nothing wrong with him.ö
Karin crossed her arms and pouted. ôIchigo doesn't trust him either.ö
Yuzu giggled. ôI guess we both have our favorite then.ö
That hit Karin as a surprise. ôWhat? Favorite?ö
Yuzu skipped off, bored with the conversation. Karin arched her eyebrows. Yuzu looked taller somehow. Not by a lot, but she did seem different in appearance. She couldn't quite put her finger on exactly how though. ôWhat just happened to us? This is strange.ö
OooOOooOO
Ichigo looked down the road. He could see the clinic ahead, and the area around his home and his sisters' school was clear of Hollows. They were all coming from a single direction. ôIf I head back now, they should be safe.ö He turned and started running back in the other direction. ôI'm gonna go deal with that jerk now and make his sorry butt cry for causing this mess.ö
The way was clear, but the Hollows were still coming. He had to find a way to stop it, but his short term goal was met. His family was safe as long as he kept them from getting by him.
OooOOooOO
Rukia gasped as she rolled aside. The Hollow before her was unaffected by her Kido. ôDamn. What the hell? I've been in this Gigai for two months, and it's like I've actually gotten weaker!ö She jumped aside as the thing slammed it's claw into the ground. ôI can't keep this up. I'm in serious trouble.ö
The monster dove at her and she braced herself. It never reached her, and fell in half as it landed on the ground on either side of her. ôHuh? Ichi...ö
Urahara was standing behind her with a small frown on his face. His cane was resting on his shoulder. ôHello. Funny running into you here.ö
She stood up and looked at her knee. She'd gotten a scrape and it was bloodied. ôYeah. Funny that. What's going on? Where are all these Hollows coming from?ö
He pulled out his fan and put it in front of his face as he narrowed his eyes. ôI'm not sure. Something is up though, there's a lot of activity. Far more than normal.ö
Rukia scowled at him. ôI noticed, I suppose I should say thanks, but I'm not so sure you didn't have something to do with all this.ö
He faked an expression of shock. ôMe? Surely you jest.ö He looked towards the direction the things were coming from. ôAt any rate, you should head back to the shop. It's safe there, and it doesn't appear that you're going to do much good.ö
She looked in the same direction. ôWhat about Ichigo?ö
The man had a serious expression on his face. ôI've a feeling he'll be fine. I've got other business.ö He pointed with his fan. ôThat way. I'll see you later. Just, head to the shop and keep your head down. I don't think this will last the day.ö
Rukia looked frustrated. ôAll right. For now, I'm going to grill you about this later you know. I know you know more than you're saying.ö
He smiled at her. ôI'll tell you if I find anything out. Like I said, I have suspicions, but I'm really not sure what's happening.ö
OooOOooOO
Chad struggled against the thing as it tried to pull him into the air with the others. ôWhat...is happening?ö
Keigo and Mizuiro were growing weak. Their struggles were slowing.
The Hollow sneered at them. ôThese two are almost finished, but you...heh. I may actually get a better meal than I anticipated.ö
Sado struggled, he could almost hear something. It sounded like it was taunting him. ôI must do something.ö He tugged and pulled against it, unable to free himself from it's grip. ôMy friends, they are in danger!ö
The other two boys went limp, their struggles stopped as they finally passed out.
The large boy was having trouble breathing, the thing had a firm grip on his neck and torso. It prevented him from taking any more than shallow breaths, and he had to struggle and pry the thing around his neck away just to do that much. His Abuelo's voice echoed in his mind. ôThese big fist that you have, for what purpose do they serve? You must find out.ö
ôYes, Abuelo. I understand now. My giant fists, are not for the sake of causing pain, but for the sake of protecting others. I understand, I understand it all, so even if just a little...please...lend me strength.ö
The monster narrowed it's eyes. ôWhat?ö It's grip was being pried free, and a strange power was pouring from the largest of its victims. ôWhat is this?ö The tentacles that surrounded the boy were ripped off leaving pieces of them hanging from Sado's body. ôWhat? It can't be! You!ö
The other two boys slumped down onto the rooftop as it focused it's rage on the giant boy. ôYou'll suffer! I'll destroy you!ö
Sado could see it clearly. A strange red and black armor plating appeared over his right arm. He frowned and rushed forward, thrusting his fist at the base of the monster.
The creature howled as it was blown in half. The torso floated up higher into the air. All of it's tentacles were removed and it was enraged. ôYou! I'll kill you for that!ö It dove at him and spread it's dangerous looking claws.
Sado stood his ground, flexing his newly armored arm. As it neared, he struck again. This time, the monster's head was vaporized as a blast of energy shot out of his fist as it connected with it's face. The thing slumped to the ground, and began to evaporate.
Chad gasped as he fell to one knee. ôI...defeated it.ö He wasn't sure what to make of what had appeared on his arm. He felt weak and drained though. ôMizuiro, Keigo...ö He glanced over and saw both boys were breating, but out cold on their backs. They appeared to be fine, and his head began to swim. ôI...ö The world spun out of control and went dark, and he fell to the rooftop beside them.
OooOOooOO
Orihime gasped for breath. She struggled and fought against the thing holding her. She wanted to get away, not to save her own life, but because she knew Tatsuki was in danger. The girl who had always protected her, one of the things like the one choking the life from her was after her as well.
ôNo! You...won't hurt Tatsuki!ö
The creature chuckled. ôI don't have too. She's suffering far more than you, just be grateful I am not so cruel!ö
The girl got a firm look on her face as the expression of pain vanished. ôI won't forgive you! I won't forgive those who would hurt Tatsuki!ö
ôEh?ö muttered the confused monster. Some of her arms moved up to shield her face as a bright light formed in the barrette on the side of her hair. ôWhat! AAAAAAARRRRGGGGGHHHHH!ö It backed away and dropped her, not by choice, but because the arms holding her became lopped off at various points. ôWhat? What is this? You...ö
Orihime landed on the ground. ôI will save Tatsuki! I won't let you monster's have her!ö A wind swirled around the girl, rustling the leaves. The monster landed on the ground, half her arms gone. It was angry with her and moved between her and where her friend had gone.
ôI won't let you escape girl! You're my victim!ö
Orihime frowned as something fluttered around her in the air. Each one had come from one of the six flower petals in her barrette. ôWhat? What are these things?ö
They spoke to her, their voices carried on the wind surrounding her.
ôShe must be aware of our existence.ö
ôNo, she is aware, after all. We are the ones, who stay nearest to her.ö
One of them landed on her shoulder, and the others floated around behind her. They looked like techno fairies. ôNice to meet you Orihime. We are the Shun Shun Rikka. Born to protect you. We are your power.ö
ôWhoa! Flying midgets!ö The girl looked shocked.
ôWe're not midgets,ö said one of the female ones. Half of them appeared to be girls, the other half were male. ôWe're your power, your own self!ö
The girl swatted her between her hands. ôOuch! Don't try to catch me because you don't understand! You're the only one who can see us!ö
ôWe don't have time for this!ö snapped one of the male ones. He was smaller than the others, but spoke forcefully in a tone that Orihime found oddly comforting. He nailed the other in the face. ôYour friend is in danger! All you need to know is that you can use us to defeat that thing!ö
The redhead nodded and frowned at the thing. It was leering at her. ôWell, what are you waiting for, brat! If you want to save your friend you've got to go through me first!ö She spread her remaining arms and slid towards her on the ground. ôI'll just kill you and be done with it!ö
ôJust use your mind, and say what I say!ö said the female who appeared to be the leader. ôThat hurt by the way!ö she snapped at the male who had kicked her.
ôGood,ö he responded. ôIt's coming!ö
The monster dove at her. Orihime said what the fairies told her to say. ôHinakigu, Baigon, Lily! Santen Kesshun! I repel thee!ö
The monster hit a triangle shaped barrier face first and crumpled into itself. ôUgh! What? What is this? A shield?ö
ôIt's my turn!ö snapped the irritable male. ôI repel both sides. I break through the enemy, put up a shield inside, and repel the combined space. In other words, I split the enemy in to! My name is Tsubaki! Say it now!ö
The monster had recovered and noticed the shield had vanished. ôInteresting, but not good enough!ö She charged again.
ôKoten Zanshun!ö
The monster froze as an arc of power slammed into her face. She opened her mouth to scream, and fell in two along the middle of her face and body before the sound escaped.
Orihime gasped as she saw the monster fall. ôTatsuki!ö she cried as she ran towards where her friend had gone.
OooOOooOO
Tatsuki screamed as her arms became pinned to the ground. The thing had stabbed her four times at once. Once in each shoulder, and again in her elbows. She struggled and writhed, unable to do anything but twist her torso as the creature removed it's claws. She was helpless, unable to move at all. ôNo.ö
Her eyes grew wide as the thing appeared before her. A monstrous spider thing, white and black, and with a cruel grin on it's partially human face. It reached for her with her claws and lifted her into the air. ôOh. I can taste your suffering! Ha ha ha ha!ö
She gasped and twisted, unable to free herself, her arms and legs useless. ôStop! Let me go!ö
ôLet you go? Before the fun has even started! Ha ha ha haaa!ö
Tatsuke looked down in horror. Off of the creature's back. several long slender tentacles began to move. They wrapped themselves around her arms and legs. Three of them floated free between herself and the monster.
ôI bet you're wondering what these are for, aren't you?ö it asked her with a cruel looking smile. The ends of the tentacles opened up.
Tatsuki went pale as she realized what they looked like. She struggled again, but it was futile. ôNo. No please.ö
The monster nodded. ôUh huh, but that's not the best part.ö The things began to ooze from the tips, and long slender looking needle like stingers slid out of the tip of each one. ôIt won't be so bad at first. You might even enjoy it a little...but...when I get started. You'll scream for death. They'll find your body and you'll just be another rape victim, sliced to ribbons by her attacker. That's how you'll be remembered, and they'll never find the one who did it.ö
The girl was as white as a ghost. She screamed in horror as they began to move towards her slowly. One of them pushing against her cheek, and the others rubbing on her legs.
ôWe'll take it slow. I like to enjoy myself, even though I can't feel it myself. I'll enjoy watching you feel every moment. Don't go thinking you can just pass out either. You see, the fluid that it excretes will keep you awake. It heightens the senses of the living and...ö There was a loud crash, as if someone had just kicked in the door behind her.
Tatsuki screamed. Her ears were ringing from the loud sound that echoed through the room. She hit the ground and landed on her side. It was painful and jarred her badly. ôWhat?ö
The creature was clutching at it's face and growled in anger. ôWho the hell?ö
ôFunny you should say that,ö said a familiar voice.
Tatsuki gasped as she managed to roll onto her back and look up.
Akuma was standing in the busted doorway with his cruel looking grin. ôNo one gets to torment Tatsuchan but me.ö
The girl's eyes went wide as she looked at what was in his hands. The boy was holding two firearms and leveled them at the monster. ôOh shit.ö She couldn't move her arms to cover her ears as he started firing.
The Hollow screamed and jerked about as the boy fired repeatedly. He kept shooting driving it back into the wall. Well past when he should have run out of bullets in fact.
Tatsuki continued to scream and squeezed her eyes shut as the boy stepped over her into the room. She gasped as he stopped shooting and pushed herself back with her shoulders towards the door. ôWhat? What is this?ö
Akuma didn't look back at her. Pieces of the monster's tentacles littered the ground, and it was bleeding at various points on it's body. ôNormally I wouldn't care, but I'd miss teasing you if you died. Wouldn't get to do it when I went back home either. A pity. I'll just have to settle for what I can get while you're still alive I guess.ö
ôYou bastard! You think those toys will hurt me!?ö snarled the beast as it's wounds began to close.
ôNot really, I'm just playing with you,ö said the boy arrogantly. His creepy grin etched onto his face like stone. He opened his eyes and it widened ever so slightly. ôI don't want to be too quick. Your suffering is only just beginning.ö
ôTatsuki!ö cried Orihime as she dashed around the corner and rushed up to the scene. ôTatsuki! Are you all right?ö
ôShe'll live,ö said Akuma in an amused tone. ôMight have to take a few days off to recover though.ö He leveled his cold glare at the thing in front of him.
The spider monster had gone quiet and appeared cautious. ôWh...what are you? You're no human.ö
The boy chuckled. ôNow, now. That's supposed to be a secret.ö He wagged his finger at it. In his other hand, he now had a broadsword hefted onto his shoulder.
Both girls looked at him with wide eyes and gasped. ôWh...what?ö muttered Tatsuki.
Orihime scowled at the monster. ôYou. You did this to Tatsuki.ö
The thing snarled at her. ôOnce I finish with this scum, you're next girlie. My, such a pretty one too.ö
Akuma chuckled. ôMad at him are you? Well, you might like this, then again, it might just send you running off screaming!ö His voice changed and a dark violet red aura started burning around him. ôPathetic creature, you still don't get it do you?ö
The monster looked at him with wide eyes. ôWhat?ö
ôI'm here, to drag you to hell. I can see your sins, see the darkness in your soul. You...belong to me now.ö He pointed his sword at the thing and his grin became malevolent. ôFor the rest of eternity, you are my bitch!ö The demonic boy took two steps forward and slashed with his sword.
The hollow's mask was split in two, and it screamed. The body evaporated, but reformed again in front of him.
The two girls were clutching each other, looking on with wide eyes. Each one too horrified to speak.
In front of them was the spirit of a man. He was on his hands and knees with tears flowing down his face. ôWhat? Where am I?ö
Akuma stabbed his sword into the ground. ôAt the gateway.ö
The man cringed back. ôNo! Mercy! Please! I...ö
The demonic figure glared down at him. It was possessive and almost lustful. ôThought you could escape eternity by becoming a Hollow did you? Thought you were free? I'm afraid not. You've only postponed the inevitable, and now it's time to pay the piper!ö He picked up his sword again and jammed the hilt into the spirit's forehead.
The two girls were shaking in terror as a huge gate, much too large for the inside of the shed, appeared behind the thing.
ôWhat...what is that?ö muttered Orihime in shock.
ôThe doorway home,ö replied Akuma as he looked at it with a wide eyed evil glee. ôThe gateway to hell.ö
The spirit screamed as it stood up and tried to stagger away from it. It's feet were sluggish and it was pulled towards it by an invisible force. ôNo! Nooooo!ö A gigantic hand holding a tanto knife reached out and impaled it through it's chest, dragging it inside the swirling vortex of fire and darkness beyond. The spirit screamed and struggled, reaching out and pleading. ôHelp me! Please! Help meeee!ö
Both girls simply looked on in shock. Unable to pry their eyes away from the gateway.
Akuma spoke to it as it remained open after pulling the thing through. ôTake good care of him, Mom.ö
A horrible voice echoed from inside the gate. ôMy son. Everything goes as it should?ö
The boy nodded, his features more human again and returned to his usual emotionless smile. ôOf course. Yuzu sends her regards, I'm annoying my brother, and Karin...well, she doesn't trust me. Dad misses you as well.ö
ôGood, very good,ö said the voice in an almost soothing tone. ôIt pleases me that he suffers with my absence. Take good care of the others, I look forward to meeting them. Little Yuzu is doing so well, tell her she has pleased me.ö
Akuma nodded and looked as if he was having a phone conversation. ôI will. Enjoy that scum, I might take a bit of time to torment him myself when I come back. If I care enough to remember.ö
ôVery good, farewell, my son. Until next time.ö The great gate closed.
Akuma turned and smiled at the two girls cowering and shivering in the doorway to the shed. ôWell. It's good to hear she's doing well.ö
ôWhat...what the hell was that?ö gasped Tatsuki.
ôMy mother,ö replied Akuma. He squatted down. ôYou know, Akuma isn't just a name. It's what I really am.ö
Both of them jolted in shock and looked at him in horror. Neither one spoke and pulled away from him.
The white haired boy looked at Orihime. ôYou know, Ichigo is my twin brother.ö
The girl swallowed. ôHe's, not like you.ö
Akuma smiled. ôDon't delude yourself, that voice you just heard is his mother too. We're the same type you know. He and I are both, less than human. In fact, we're not even half human. He doesn't know that though. I'm sure he'll figure it out sooner or later.ö
Orihime felt her heart leap into her throat. ôWhat?ö
Akuma shrugged. ôCome on. I'll help you out I guess. We shouldn't just leave her here. She's going to need some time to recover from her injuries.ö His face fell a little. ôIt looks serious too. I'm not sure she'll ever completely recover. He cut her tendons. I doubt you'll be able to compete anymore, Tatsuchan.ö He actually looked a little sorry to say it.
The girl squeezed her eyes shut. ôDon't touch me!ö She shied away.
Orihime hefted her arm over her shoulder. ôHe...saved your life.ö
ôHe's not human!ö cried the girl as she looked at her in shock.
The boy didn't seem bothered and took her other arm. ôWell, neither is Ichikun. You get along with him all right. Besides, I only saved you so I could keep teasing you. You take it so well, always over reacting. It'd be a shame if I let you die. Then I'd only have my brother to torment that way.ö
ôAsshole,ö growled the girl as she glared at him. ôI bet you knew all along, and just waited until the last minute to help me out.
Akuma set her down on the grass with Orihime. He paused and looked at the redhead. ôHuh. Well, you're right. I was expecting you to be dead. Figured it'd drive my brother nuts.ö
The redhead gasped and looked up at him. ôWhat?ö
He blinked and cocked his head. ôWhat the hell are those things?ö
There were six fairy like creatures fluttering around Orihime. The girl frowned at him and blushed. ôMy...power.ö
ôWeird,ö he muttered as he backed off. He had no idea what to make of them.
ôWhat? You just left her to die then?ö snapped one of the little male ones. He had a mask over his face. ôYou bastard. Orihime! Let me...ö
She pinched at his wings and pulled him back. ôHe did...save Tatsuki.ö
Two of them fluttered up to her face. ôWe can help her now!ö It was the two females who hadn't done anything yet. The leader and the small quiet one. ôBoth of our abilities is to repel the inner shield. We can repel the damage within a limited area.ö
ôRepel?ö muttered Akuma as he looked on. He had been planning on walking off to leave them stewing on what he'd said. Sowing seeds of doubt about his brother within the minds of both of them. This was far too interesting to ignore.
The head fairy continued to talk. ôWe care return the state of the one inside the shield to their state before taking damage.ö
Tatsuki was having the weirdest day of her life. ôWhen am I going to wake up from this crazy dream anyway?ö It was giving her a headache.
ôCall our names, I am Shounou, she is Ayame.ö
ôShounou, Ayame! Shouten Kishun. I repel thee!ö
A field formed around Tatsuki. The girl relaxed and closed her eyes.
Akuma looked on and frowned at the scene over her shoulder. ôWhat? That...that's not healing. It's...time reversal...no...it's different. What the?ö
Tatsuki was healing quickly, her injuries vanishing as if they were never there.
The demon half smirked. ôI see. Very interesting. Banishment, repel indeed. Orihime, you've just become very interesting.ö
The girl gasped and looked over her shoulder. ôWha?ö
Akuma had his normal smirk and his arms were crossed. ôHeh. I suggest you watch your back. That power of yours is more valuable than you think. Still, it's got nothing to do with my purpose here.ö
ôPurpose?ö She clenched her fist and bit her lip. ôWait. Why...why are you here?ö
The boy looked at her out of the corner of his eyes. ôI'm looking for something. Humans don't need to concern themselves with it.ö
The girl stood up and faced him. ôWhat does Kurosaki have to do with this?ö
ôIchikun? Well, nothing really.ö He turned away. ôYou still care for him, even knowing? Huh. Interesting girl, very interesting. I suspect he'll have his hands full with you.ö
The girl blushed. ôWhat do you mean?ö
ôYou'll figure it out. It was unwise to flaunt such a power so openly. It might just cost you one day. I've no interest in it now, but regardless. You should take care kid.ö
She staggered back at his cold expression. He wasn't grinning at her, and leveled his eyes over his shoulder. ôI won't let you hurt, Kurosaki.ö
Akuma started walking away. ôYou don't need to concern yourself with him. Still, I think, you'd better hope he feels the same way about you. See you around, princess.ö
Tatsuki sat up and looked at her arms and legs. They were as good as new. She was in shock and looked at her friend. ôWhat...was that?ö
The redhead shrugged. ôI'm not sure. I just found out I could do that. I'm glad you're all right though.ö
The short haired girl nodded. ôYeah. What was that about? I could see you talking, but I couldn't hear.ö
Orihime frowned and glanced over her shoulder. ôI'm not sure. He helped you, I don't think he's all bad. I don't know though. He said my power was interesting. It made me a little nervous.ö
ôI'll say. I guess I owe him, but he's a jerk,ö her friend was clearly unsettled by the prospect of owing him. ôI still don't trust him.ö She knew what he said about waiting, but she wasn't entirely sure he was being honest about it. She had a feeling he wasn't, but couldn't be sure.
The big busted girl helped her too her feet, and she ended up bumping into her chest and bouncing off. The short haired girl didn't think anything of it and steadied herself on her shoulders. ôI'm...I'm all right.ö
Orihime looked at her friend. After a moment of standing there in each other's arms, they both slumped down out cold. Exhausted from their ordeal and drained completely.
A figure holding a very large boy in a fireman's carry walked up to the scene and frowned. Urahara gave a small sigh and looked at the pair. He glanced over his shoulder and looked in the direction Akuma had gone. ôHuh. I wonder what that guy is up too? Never expected to see him perform a soul burial. Didn't know his kind even could.ö He looked at the pair and sighed. He could only take one more. He ended up hefting Orihime over his shoulder. The other girl would be fine, all the nearby Hollows were destroyed, and her spiritual energy had been drained. It would take a little while for it to recover. ôI'll have to send someone to take care of her before she wakes up.ö
ôI'll take care of it.ö
The fallen Shinigami froze and went rigid with the two teens on his shoulders. ôOh. Still here are you?ö He relaxed and didn't look back.
ôYeah. The redhead is interesting. Strange powers and all. I suspect you saw enough to realize that.ö Akuma was leaning against the wall.
ôYou'll be late for class.ö
ôNot going back today, it's too interesting out here today. I'll take her friend home, she'll be safe enough.ö
Urahara nodded. ôI'm still not sure what you're up too. Still, I suppose it's none of my business.ö
Akuma nodded. ôYou'd be right. It doesn't involve these kids. Just a word of advice.ö
The former Shinigami turned his head. ôYes?ö
ôStay away from my brother. They'll be coming for her soon, and I know he's tempting. I'll take care of that, you can busy yourself with his friends while I handle the rest.ö
Urahara turned back. ôThat's up to him. You know, he has two natures to choose from. Neither one is human, but he could become a powerful Shinigami. Might even give the old man a run for his money in a hundred years or so.ö
The man froze, there was a blade at his throat and Akuma was glaring down the length of him at it. ôThat isn't a request. He's mine, and you know damn well I can make him stronger than any Shinigami.ö
The man sidestepped and appeared behind him. ôI know. Still, you know you can't change his nature. I know a bit about your kind. His nature, will always be in opposition to yours.ö
Akuma chuckled. ôI know. That's what makes it interesting. Get in the way, and I'll stop you. We each have our own darkness. Yuzu and Karin are just beginning to discover this as well.ö
Urahara looked up at the sky. ôI've always wondered, do you care? I mean, about family? Demons behavior can be a little strange to those on the outside.ö
The boy started walking down the path behind the school. ôIn our own way. He's my brother, and I will make him strong, whether he wants it or not. You can make yourself useful if you want, but he's mine. I will show him a path to a power even one as strong as you cannot imagine.ö He rounded the corner on the opposite side of the building.
Urahara smirked and started walking with the teens on his shoulders. ôHuh. Learn something new...every...day...ö
Akuma was ahead of him, walking out the school gates. The boy paused long enough to smirk and continue on his way with his blade resting on his shoulder.
The former Shinigami knew that he was letting him know that he was not impressed by his Shunpo. He scowled a little and continued on his way. ôInteresting guy. Wonder what his story is?ö He smirked to himself as he walked unhindered by the weight of the pair. ôMaybe I'll find out by the time this is all over?ö
cont...