Between Heaven and Hell

Sprawled before the men overlooking the streets beneath them were the sounds and sights of Karakura Town, Japan. Unseen by the passersby going about their everyday lives were the two spiritual entities floating in mid-air, the wind playing with their hair and garments as they slowly descended. They were about their business the moment their feet touched the concrete sidewalk, silent in their movements as both men set a quick, ground consuming pace.

The sun beat down on them from a sky devoid of clouds, making it one of the clearest days the black-haired man of the duo thought with a little smile showing on his face. His name was Naibu Shizuka, Master within the Ryū Order and leader of his friends son and friends. He wore the average black Shihakushō minus the shitagi usually seen beneath, the arm emblazoned with a white eagle in flight. His hair was tied back into a neat ponytail by a piece of red string, the tied piece resting between his shoulders blades. From yellow eyes he watched the humans oblivious to their presence walk past without a care in the world.

His partner was the ever serious Ashido Kanō who stood to Naibu's right. He wore a tattered Shihakushō also colored black with no footwear of any kind, complete with a brown fur coat draping his shoulders even in this heat. The fur coat was adorned with several Hollow masks with a more "helmet" looking mask in the middle, with two flanking it on either side set evenly apart. "Any more clues?" Ashido asked without moving his gaze from the front. He moved around an incoming civilian before returning to his former position beside Naibu.

"Riki scared the last dealer pretty bad. I doubt they'll be any more sightings here." Replied Naibu. He flicked his fringe to the side out of habit and furrowed his forehead in thought. "... The pickings in the Human World are slim, and our chances of finding anything have slimmed with the others going to Soul Society."

"Horiwari then? He'll probably know already but we might as well tell him about Shinzō's latest actions."

The two continued conversing until they reached the relative seclusion of Karakura Park. Beneath the shade of a large tree the two stopped. Ashido took a seat atop one of the higher branches while Naibu was content to lean against the trunk, his furrowed forehead still showing.

A few blocks from the park in which the duo had arrived, in an abandoned warehouse, a young man, a teenage boy who had been forced into maturity much before his time, sat cross legged on the floor. He looked like a simple human boy, but for the fact that on close inspection one noticed that he sat not on the floor but floated an inch or so above it, eyes closed, lost deep within himself. Wearing a white long-sleeved shirt and black pants with a blue cloth hanging from halfway up his stomach to his knees. A purple rope belt was tied in a bow around his waist, an empty sword sheath slipped into it. The sword rests on his lap, both hands holding it up from both ends.

Kenshin had been sitting in this manner for almost an hour, eyes closed, his face so calm that it seemed that he had been sleeping. But within his mind a storm was brewing, its devastating power rolling through his inner world. Once filled with rolling green fields, tall trees and hills covered by lush forests, it was slowly changing. A part had already been reduced to a barren desert, winds howling and sand flying as if locked in a game of tag throughout the wasteland. The storm was centered in this wasteland, Kenshin sitting within its heart. From the ground rose a set of gears and shafts, pulleys and pistons; an engine made of glass floating up and dancing in the air before him. He had been playing with it for some time now. He had always been good at fixing engines, his father had taught him how to dismantle and reassemble one when he was a little boy. Maybe that was the reason that whenever he tried to tackle the problem of his inner demon, the hollow that had risen within him, Hōkatsu represented it as a broken engine to him, something that he had to fix. He realized that this was his subconscious longing for his father, hoping that he would reappear and fix his problems for him once more.

But he knew this was just wishful thinking and continued working on the engine, forcing gears together where they were popping out of place. After what seemed like another lifetime he finally say a potential solution, a way to fit everything together, but as he pushed a piston down a shaft it started to expand, no longer fitting in smoothly and the entire assembly began to crack. As he fought harder to prevent it from breaking, the cracks just started growing faster. Finally, as he tried to pull out, to push it all back into the ground the entire structure shattered, glass flying out in all directions, two particularly sharp edged pieces flying straight into his eyes.

As a sharp "Nooo!" escaped his mouth his body suddenly stood up in the warehouse. There were no glass shards in his eyes but they were bleeding nonetheless, the pupils turning red. The tears began to solidify, a white mask slowly appearing around the brown edges. Within seconds the mask was complete, a manic laugh escaping his mouth as he madly swung the katana around. But this was not Kenshin, he was lost somewhere within his mind, watching all this as if form a trance. Kenshin watched on as the demon in control of his body suddenly tensed, sensing something. Then he noticed it too, two powerful being not far from here. The demon saw this as a chance to play around, to test its powers; it said something to him, words that Kenshin could not understand, and then flew into the air, blasting out through the broken roof. Within minutes it had reached the park, a bright red Cero forming in its left hand. Kenshin tried to stop this, but he was still unable to take control, still lost in the periphery. He could once more just watch as the demon landed a little far from the two men, who were now close enough to be seen clearly with the naked eye, and shouted, "Helloooo!" and blasted off the Cero at them.

Storm clouds were brewing but not the traditional kind Naibu noted with worry. He raised his head to the heavens with a degree of calm etched across his features, despite his gut feeling. There was something not quite right about this entire scene. Something dark and ominous that caused him to go rigid against the tree trunk and rise to his full height, completely abandoning the slouched posture he had been favoring. "Somethings coming..." He noted mentally, his yellow eyes almost like a Hollows scanning intently around the confines of the park while his senses scanned beyond its borders. He had no idea what it was that made the hair on his back rose so, nor did he hazard a guess, but whatever the cause Naibu didn't like it.

Ashido had noticed too apparently, for he had dropped from his perch atop the tree to land on all fours like some large cat. The inclusion of the fur coat didn't lessen the picture a hair. His eyes were wide and alert his body slowly straightening as he, too, rose to his full height. Ashido's hand had wandered to the hilt of his zanpakutō, while his other had reached around to his back where one of his Hollow masks lay within reach. The two Shinigami stood side-by-side, each with their own thoughts flowing wildly through their heads. Regardless of their thoughts they both slowly turned to regard the other, heads moving slowly as their eyes finally locked on the others.

"You feel that?" They asked in unison. Both nodded the moment a figure appeared before their eyes with a Cero charged. A demonic "Hello" escaped its lips, a mask clear upon its face as the Cero followed the words! Ashido moved quickly, placing himself deftly between that laser-like beam and his comrade, a Hollow mask of his own held out before him and Naibu. The beam struck its surface, causing Ashido to skid back until he was braced by the strong hand of Naibu. With additional help from Naibu Ashido held his ground and eventually diverted that Cero into the heavens, brushing the branches of the tree behind them but leaving the park safe and secure.

"Hollowfication," Naibu muttered, the ominous feeling becoming clear before him. This young man before him was the source of it all. "It's just like Ashni..." Ashido noted, still being unfamiliar with the concept. Both drew their zanpakutō though neither made a move beyond that to take the offensive. How were they to know the extent of this youngsters skill? How were they to know how much the Hollow in control bolstered those skills? So instead of attacking the two stood back-to-back instead, wariness etched on their faces both.

A momentary feeling of surprise passed through Kenshin's face as his inner hollow registered the fact that his Cero had been blocked. But the feeling was instantaneously replaced by a feeling of great joy, a happiness at being able to test his abilities further. Kenshin realized that this stemmed from the fact that he had never encountered anyone particularly powerful while in his hollow form and his inner hollow must be thoroughly thrilled at the chance to face such opponents. And despite his situation, Kenshin could not help but feel a sense of curiosity rise within himself. He had heard the tales of what truly powerful hollows were capable of, but the true limits of his inner hollow's powers were hidden from him. But at the same time he also realized that this confrontation could provide him with a chance to reassert control over his body. He only hoped that the two facing his darker half were capable to weaken it enough to give him the chance.

While he had been thinking he suddenly felt his body move as his inner hollow made his move. Rushing straight in, right hand gripping his katana pulled back over his left shoulder to execute a powerful slash, he moved in straight towards the one who had blocked the Cero with his mask. But at the last moment he disappeared and reemerged in front of the other to slash at his chest instead.

Naibu watched this young mans posture closely for any outward sign he could exploit, though the thing that drew him most of all were his eyes, showing the usual Hollow influenced yellow. He picked up on the flash of curiosity quickly hidden by the thrill of combat and felt his heart lighten. The young man whose body was possessed hadn't yet been completely overcome. "Ashido, we need to weaken him. Do everything you...!" Naibu ceased further talk as the figure literally vanished.

Ashido became alert to his foes changing motions soon after he appeared before him, preparing to meet his strike with one of his own that was just as powerful; though his sudden change in direction caused Ashido's one-handed strike to eat nothing but the air in front of him. His other hand still held the Hollow mask from before which Ashido used to jab a warning to his comrade, who swung one of Jōzai's twin katana to meet the youngsters impressive slash! But Naibu's greatest trait was his incredible physical strength, which allowed him to block and subsequently repel the figure soon after their blades touched.

Even as they parted Ashido and Naibu were moving. The two spun in place, switching places while keeping their backs continually against the other. "Nijikioku," Vibrant white energy awoke on Ashido's battle-beaten zanpakutō which he proceeded to release following the arc of his following slash, a white wave with a jagged design being the result!

As Kenshin saw the slash get repelled, he felt his body flow backwards. For a moment he was pleased that the duo were indeed strong enough to give him a chance to free himself. At that same instance he realized something else, he had actually directly felt his body move, not merely felt a reverberation through his hollow counterpart. Realizing that the hold of his inner hollow was not as strong as he had thought, he tried to exert his will over his body and felt that he was indeed not as trapped as before. While all this happened within a fraction of a second within his mind, the energy wave crashed into his body. He sensed his hands move once more, rising up to fire a small Cero to counteract some of the attack. But the damage was done, cracks had started to appear on his hollow mask and Kenshin felt energy flow into his very being. Exerting his will he raised his inner self and gripped his katana which appeared in his hand. Seeing with the power of his zanpakutō what he had to do, he stabbed forward.

The dual attacks from without and within were too much for his inner hollow and Kenshin felt his control over his body lessen and taking his chance he asserted his control over his body and with a mighty effort swung his zanpakutō to smash its hilt into the hollow mask covering his face. Once more completely in control of his body, he pushed his weakened inner hollow deep into the darkest confines of his being. As the rest of the mask crumbled, a wave of exhaustion passed over his body and he collapsed to his knees. Letting his zanpakutō slip out of his hands he let his hands fall onto the ground. Slowly pushing himself up he looked up to face the duo he had a moment ago been attacking, "Thank you for helping me beat him. Did he hurt you?" he said while pushing himself up to stand uncertainly. Remembering the knowing expression on their faces upon first seeing him with the hollow mask a realization suddenly hit him. "That wasn't the first hollowfication you have seen, right? Who are you people?"

And as soon as the storm clouds had first gathered in Naibu's mind they dispersed following Ashido's strike. This young man was a child in truth with his whole life ahead of him, yet here he was doomed to the shadow of an Inner Hollow he couldn't fully control looming over him. It wasn't the first time he had seen it, nor would it be the last he thought with a flicker of anger that never showed through the calm mask he wore so well. "No, we are both perfectly fine, thank you." Naibu replied politely, his free hand extended in greeting and help. "I am Naibu Shizuka. This is Ashido Kanō."

Ashido placed his Hollow mask back in its holder on the fur coat, sheathed his katana and acknowledged the young man kneeling on the ground with a slight incline of his head. Seriousness was etched across his face though the sympathy was clear within the Shinigami's eyes. He had seen this happen one of his students and knew the problems it could cause. "Yes," He answered to the second question. "One of our students has the same problem."

"We are members of the Ryū Order, which is an organization of spiritually aware beings operating within the Human World, possible Vizard just like yourself included, among other races." Naibu continued on, his tone still as calm as a slow flowing mountain creek. Even his posture didn't give any sign of hostility: just calmness. "You won't find the group without help, however. But Ashido and myself need to make a report and you would be more that welcome to come with us and seek help once we arrive."

"Naibu?" Ashido asked, his serious expression only deepening. "You intend to help him?"

"If he is interested then yes. Hollowfication is a form of torture after all," And Naibu knew torture all too well. There had been many a night when Shūhen Kōhai, disgraced son of Heisekai had subjected him to the most brutal and physical torture imaginable, episodes made bearable only by the books Naibu was allowed to freely read. Ashido nodded simply, guessing his partners thoughts. "But before we get to discussing that, what is your name?"

Kenshin grasped the proffered hand and pulled himself to his feet. "Thanks," he said, nodding in greeting to both men, at the same time shaking Naibu's hand. Hearing of the Ryū Order spiked his interest, he had never heard of such an organization, but then again his interactions with any other spiritually aware beings had been minimal at best. His natural response would have been to be wary of them, but for once his gut told him to trust them, after he had been the one to attack them and still they seemed to be offering to help him. Words uttered by his mother long ago, No matter how dark the tunnel may seem there will be some light at the end, Kenshin decided to accept any help that was offered. Trying to fix this problem on his own had not worked out particularly well and he was smart enough to realize when he needed help.

As the two finished talking, Kenshin turned to Naibu, "My name is Kenshin, Kenshin Suzuki. Pleased to meet you." The polite greeting, something else drilled into him by his mother, came out without him even realized he was uttering the words, drawing forth a small smile.

Naibu nodded his head, seemingly pleased by the young mans reaction. It wasn't often he found young people who were polite and courteous to their elders even if he was only a young man himself in truth. It was a refreshing change, especially when he was used to waking up with some form of ridiculous prank awaiting him from his beloved students with never a polite gesture from either of them save Harumi. Here was a young man Riki and Jinta could learn something from. With that pictured in his mind Naibu's smile only deepened. "Kenshin, there is a man who I've known for a very long time named Kenji Hiroshi. His elder brother, Rosuto, has Hollow powers also and one of the most skilled in using them I have ever seen." Naibu admitted.

Ashido only nodded his agreement when Naibu looked over for confirmation. He had moved off from the two with his back against the tree he had originally sat upon earlier, arms folded across his chest; features and posture set in their usual serious nature. He had seen both Shuhei Hisagi and Rosuto utilize their Hollow powers at different times in battle and there was no contest to who had the better control.

Kenshin heard this and realized that if he could meet and speak to this friend Naibu spoke of, he would be a step closer to understanding how to control his inner hollow. Trying to keep his hopes from rising too much, he turned from Naibu to Ashido and back to Naibu. "And this friend has managed to control his inner hollow? Could he possibly show someone else how to achieve something like that? Someone like me possibly?"

"Rosuto?" Naibu asked, once again flicking his fringe aside out of habit. "He beat his Hollow into submission shortly after their first meeting. Said something about bullies and how much he hated them to me, but he has already taught others within the Order how to control their own Inner Hollow and abilities afterwards and could show you as well, I'm sure." Naibu answered with a little smile.

"We can leave whenever you're ready." Ashido cut in, kicking off the tree and moving forward. "At the very least we will be here to tomorrow morning, so if you have anything you want to take with you now would be a good time."

Kenshin shook his head in reply, "No, I am ready to go now if you want. My sister already knows I am out training and she's used to me vanishing for long stretches of time. The faster I deal with this the better."

Turning quickly, Ashido drew his zanpakutō and stabbed the air in front; the blade seemingly passing through an invisible hole in the air. With a quick twist a set of doors opened to reveal a bright white light, which two hell butterflies flew out from. "I'll follow you both tomorrow." Ashido said before flash stepping into the distance in chase of yet another lead. He changed his direction quickly by grasping the head of a lamppost before disappearing into a street-side alleyway on the street opposite the park.

"Shall we?" Naibu asked, beckoning his young charge through the open doorway. The light completely immersed them as their journey towards Horiwari began. "If you don't mind me asking," Naibu began, "how did you gain Hollow powers? I've seen a number of Vizards and those with Inner Hollows they have yet to control, though few have been so young." There was a certain hypnotic quality to the tone he took.

Kenshin thought for a minute about how much he should tell Naibu and decide to tell him the truth. He was helping him out and providing him with a few answers was the least that he could do. "To answer that I will have to first explain to you the abilities of my zanpakutō, Hōkatsu. Hōkatsu allows me to analyse a system and understand exactly how it works. But my control over its powers are still limited and as the complexity of a system increases my understanding becomes less precise and sometimes I don't even understand much of what Hōkatsu tells me." At this point Kenshin paused for a second, not completely comfortable with sharing the next piece of information but deciding to dispense all of it nonetheless. "I guess I got a little carried away with Hōkatsu's abilities and paid the prize for it. I encountered this hollow a few months ago and tried to read its abilities so that I could understand exactly how a hollow's powers work and somehow Hōkatsu took it to a different level. Instead of just helping me understand its power he somehow created similar powers within me, something I didn't even know it was capable of. The exact details are still a little hazy to me and Hōkatsu refuses to share any more information about that particular event with me. And that's more or less what happened, one moment I was watching over this hollow I had just defeated and the next instance there's a demon dancing around my head trying to wrest control of my body from me. Since then I've been trying to find a way to reverse the action but I think its pretty much a given that I'm stuck like this."

Naibu remained quite through the young mans story, his right hand occasionally cupping his chin and the stubble that was beginning to grow in quite clearly. He'd need a shave once he got back though the thought didn't last long. He was well used to listening to his students problems and concerns, as well as fears and nightmares and wasn't ignorant enough to ignore or feign interest in a subject when someone actually took the time to tell him something, which in this case was quite personal. And this young man's story was nothing short of horrifying, Naibu noted as he finally took his hand away; brushing his fringe once more. Kenshin had no foreknowledge of what it was he was letting himself in for with such an action. It was rash, true, but that was the way of the young.

"You had it quite rough, haven't you? You've also been strangely fortunate." Naibu looked down at his young charge with genuine concern. "You could have easily lost control... and I don't think I need to tell you what may have happened if you had. Doing what you have done on your own so far is quite impressive, but know that you may not necessarily be stuck the way you are." Naibu went quiet for a time, considering how to word his next statement. His hand was now raised to shield his eyes from the white glare around them. "The man I told you about - Kenji. He once had Hollow powers as well." He put a degree of emphasize to that statement.

Kenshin nodded once in reply to Naibu's question, wondering back on the number of ways in which things could have turned out even worse than right now. He was about to say something when Naibu mentioned him not being stuck like this forever. He turned his head sharply to look at the other man, surprise, uncertainty and a little hope mingled on his face. I may not be stuck like this? Upon hearing the rest of Naibu's statement he actually stopped moving. Looking ahead at Naibu, who stopped a few steps ahead of him after his abrupt stop, Kenshin realized the importance of the statement he had heard, not sure if he had even heard it correctly. "He had Hollow powers? You mean he no longer has those powers?" His voice, surprisingly steady considering the turmoil within his mind, was so low that Naibu might not even have heard him if not for the eerie silence of their surroundings.

Naibu stopped himself a little ahead of Kenshin. "Yes, he used to have them." Naibu replied softly, nodding to add emphasize. The elder felt a tug at his heart strings at the young mans situation. Judging by his story he didn't have much information to go on, or anyone to talk to about it either. "He lost them battling an Arrancar named Averian. Not only is he powerful, but whatever way he managed it, technique or zanpakutō-given power I know not, but during their battle Kenji's Hollow influence was mostly erased. Kenji's wive, Ino, used her rejection powers afterwards to erase what was left; though that particular fact isn't exactly widely known, even among Kenji's closest friends." Naibu motioned Kenshin to continue moving then. "Ino may be fit to do the same for you, though I will not lie. When she did it to Kenji a great deal of the Hollows influence had already been erased, so I don't know how reliable a method it is in truth. Either way, Rosuto is the man to talk to still. If anyone knows the limits of removing a Hollows influence its him."

Kenshin was lost in thought for a while, processing what he had heard. Here was proof that what he had been trying to accomplish, what he had only been hoping for was possible, had actually been done. His mind immediately began coming up with the possibilities, if he could analyse this friend's wife's powers or even just have a chat with the man himself, he might, just might be able to find a way to fix this problem. But he did not let himself get overly hopeful, the possibility of success was there but so was there a chance that this might just have been an exception to the rule and reversal of hollowfication might not be possible. Whatever the outcome, his path ahead was become clearer to him. He would first meet this Rosuto person and seek his help in controlling his inner hollow and once he was able to completely beat it into submission he would try to vanquish it forever. Running once more, Kenshin finally spoke once more, his eyes fixed on the path ahead. "I would really like to meet this Kenji... and his wife. That is if they would agree to meet me." He went quite once more as he started thinking what could possibly have erased the hollow's influence, what had he not thought of. Finally turning to face Naibu, he continued speaking, this time with a slight smile on his face, "I must thank you for what you are doing for me. I know this must be a risk for you as well, and I really appreciate you taking this risk for me."

Naibu's face was impassive, but inside he was smiling a secret little smile that soon showed on the outside with Kenshin's thanks. This young man hadn't heard much about Kenji Hiroshi, though. "You are welcome, Kenshin. But this is no risk. I've known Kenji a long time - we had the same teacher and hold similar beliefs and mind sets. Except Kenji's a more free-spirited man and less restrained." Naibu began explaining. "He doesn't care for people's backgrounds, situation or anything like that. He sees people simply for what they are, so will he meet with you? Absolutely. And Ino is the Order's best healer, so she would meet with you as well." The light around them gave way to a set of doors identical to those the duo had entered from. "We are here,"

The doors opened up onto a wooden walkway built above countless canals and intersecting waterways which reflected the light of the sun. Guards were present at the "Traveling Ground", with each saluting with their fist to hearts at Naibu's approach. Naibu returned the motion in kind and motioned Kenshin forward. "Horiwari... home of the Ryū Order." Pride laced the elders tone and a smile covered his face. People came and went as they pleased with merchants hawking their wares at their individual stalls. Giving the closest fruit-man the necessary coins, Naibu lifted two apples and handed one to his companion. The area was just beginning to come to life. Businessmen were about their business with children running through the streets with members of Yoshiro's street guards looking on, all ready for the days lessons and work. On higher ground stood a large wall, of which guaranteed the safety of those behind it. "These are the docks." Naibu said finally. "The most open of the sectors. I wouldn't call it lawless but... keep your wits about you here."

Kenshin stood rooted where he was, taking in the sights all around him. So many people, and from the feel of it almost all of them in one way or another spiritually aware. What astounded him even more was the size of this place. This was not just some small settlement or camp but a full fledged village or maybe even a town. Turning to look at Naibu he waved it around in front of him, "These are your headquarters? And you've kept it hidden from the outside world all this time?" He once more made a complete revolution where he stood, taking in a deep breath of the air, marveling at the surroundings.

It wasn't often Naibu allowed his emotions to show, though looking at Kenshin's expression, the Shizuka clansmen couldn't help but smile and laugh a little in response. "It is impressive. Thousands of people - most spiritually aware as you can sense, living in almost perfect harmony. Shinigami, Vizard, Arrancar, simple souls. It matters not which race you are from. Anyone is welcome here." He took a fresh breathe of air mingled with a slight fishy aroma. "I cannot wait until you see the lower heights which lie beyond that wall." He pointed off towards the wall in question, which rose high into the sky and was quite thick. Kidō armaments for defense against invasion as well as manned guard towers were spread across the top at regular intervals. "Don't let them put you off," Naibu assured as he motioned Kenshin towards the trail leading up to that large wall. "The Order has been at war with Averian's Army for a long time and precautions need to be made."

As they walked Naibu stopped one of Yoshiro's defenders - a young looking man with short-cut brown hair with a noticeably longer fringe that shadowed his features. He went erect at Naibu's approach. "Good say. Could you tell me where I might find Rosuto Shiba?" Respect was apparent in his tone. "Last I saw him, sir, he was coming down from the Academy. Said something about seeing a tailor." Naibu dismissed the man with genuine thanks before shaking his head as though at some inner joke. "That means we are in luck, Kenshin. The best tailor in Horiwari lives in the lower heights."

Kenshin took in the sights as they walked, soaking in everything he could see, hear, and smell. Averian's Army? he thought in response to Naibu's words, having never heard of any such group. But judging by the size of this place and the strength of the people it seemed to harbor this Averian's Army must be strong if it posed an actual threat to them. As they were directed to this tailor his potential teacher was visiting Kenshin voiced his doubts. "Who are the Averian's Army? They must have some major firepower if they can threaten this place. I know I've been bombarding you with questions but this is the last one for now, I promise."

"If you did not have questions then I would be worried. You know nothing about the Ryū Order, who we face or our own motives after all." Naibu fixed the youngster with an expressionless outward expression. "The only information you have to go in is my own and Ashido's assurances, so being curious and perhaps a little doubtful is perfectly understandable and not something I find annoying. But to answer your question you will first need to know a little about Averian himself."

Naibu took a deep breathe of air less fishy than that which filled the docks. He and Kenshin had already passed beneath the protective wall and were now walking the streets of the lower heights; houses of all shapes and sizes flanking them on either side of the street. "Averian is an Arrancar whose zanpakutō allows him to not only absorb the spiritual energy of those he kills, but their memories and collective knowledge as well. Over 3000+ years old as far as we can determine - all historical reference up till that point show he doesn't exist, at least on paper." Naibu stopped as a small group of people walked past and didn't take his story up again until their chatter had receded. "Powerful and cunning he has amassed almost complete control of the Hollow and Arrancar population within Hueco Mundo, using their numbers and powers to fulfill his own twisted ambitions - which became Averian's Army. The Ryū Order came into existence to combat him, as well as safeguarding the Human World."

Meanwhile...

Within the walls of a large and open workspace, a blond-haired individual wearing a white Shihakushō was lazily drumming his fingers atop a well carved wooden table. Sitting opposite him was a lanky man with a long and sharp nose, as well as greasy black hair with grey growing in at the sides. "Very well, Master Shiba. The garment will be ready within four days." The little man had a habit of rubbing his hands together while smiling a mostly toothless grin that did little favors for him.

"Thanks. Sorry to hear about your wife." Rosuto said as he rose, finally shaking the mans hand. "Send her up to the medical wing. If Momoko can do anything for her, she will. I'll send a messenger saying she's to be seen immediately." With that the Shiba clansmen turned on his heel and left, leaving a very grateful tailor behind. As he stepped outside he stopped momentarily to squint into the distance. "... Naibu? Weren't you supposed to be in the Human World?" He thought. "Naibu!" He shouted, closing the distance quickly. "Been a while. Whose the kid?" He asked, looking at the young man standing beside Naibu.

Kenshin heard everything Naibu said, about the ancient Arrancar, his amazing abilities and finally the very reason about the founding of the Ryū Order. The more he heard the more he realized how woefully ignorant he was of this new world he had entered. Before this day the only shinigami he knew of were his own father and Ryū and Ryū's stories of his time in the Gotei 13 had been his only source of information about the spiritual world. But here was something he had never mentioned, maybe he hadn't even known about this place.

A sudden shout from ahead brought him out of his thoughts and he looked up to see a blond male rushing towards them. Looking around he noticed the houses around them and Kenshi realized that he hadn't even noticed how far they had walked while talking and so intent had he been on thinking about his conversation with Naibu that he hadn't even taken much notice of the path they had taken. Realizing that not only was he lost in the metaphorical sense but quite literally as well Kenshin couldn't help but keep a slight smile from emerging on the corner of his lips.

By this time the bland man had reached them and greeted Naibu. When the man asked Naibu about who he was Kenshin stepped forward with his hand extended in front of him, "My name is Kenshin, Kenshin Suzuki. Pleased to meet you." Once more displaying a politeness that had been drilled into him by his mother Kenshin's smile widened, but not out of any sense of joy at meeting this man but rather at the nature of the facade he was putting up. Though it was not in his nature, he had somehow started to trust Naibu and had been polite and even respectful to him and was willing to extend the same trust to the people here as well if they were his comrades. For now the fact that he had offered him aid was enough to make placate Kenshin's more corrosive traits but the question playing at the back of his mind was for how long.

"Rosuto Shiba," Rosuto answered in reply, inclining his head respectfully. He narrowed his yellow eyes for the briefest of seconds as a smile played across his features, quickly hidden. "So the kid's a Vizard?" He could tell that simply from the remnants of the Hollows reiatsu still clinging to his body. "He isn't from here either." He noted further, finally fixing Naibu with upraised eyebrows and his arms crossed at his chest. "I thought you were supposed to be babysitting?"

"The 'babies' have run off to Soul Society with some of Van Satonaka's kin, his student and friends of said student." Naibu replied casually, chuckling at the thought of his students being called mere babies. How Riki would love to hear that. "But other matters have called me back ahead of Ashido, namely the latest movements of the Imawashī... though that report can wait until Ashido returns tomorrow. Another reason is young Kenshin here."

The second reason given caught Rosuto's attention like a kick in the gut. His left eyebrow rose even more - if possible - while the left dropped in turn. "... And what reason might that be?" He asked of the young man, taking a less annoyed look overall. He had a fair guess at the reason though, but kept his mouth shut because he didn't have the full picture yet.

Kenshin did not bulge or give in under the older man's stare, knowing full well that almost all of his actions would be judged until he earned the trust of the residents of this place. "It's basically due to my hollowfication problems and the fact that I lost control and attacked your friends and tried to kill them before they helped me regain control. They were kind enough to offer me help in dealing with my problem and I accepted their offer."

And the pieces fell into place at last. "I thought as much... but you nearly killed them?" Rosuto said, utterly surprised even though Kenshin said nothing of the sort. Rumors would take care of that, though. "Don't take my look as an insult, eh?" He asked of Kenshin finally. "You known, Naibu, I cannot wait until the next time I happen to go for a drink with you guys. This'll make a fun story." Kenshin probably didn't care, though that little revelation would give Rosuto the ammo needed to drive his friends to distraction.

"As much as I'll look forward to that meeting," Naibu forestalled Rosuto's coming statement with an upraised hand that made the Shiba clansmen bolt upright. "I have a request. You just heard he cannot control his-"

"And you want me to teach him, right?" Rosuto cut in, turning to look at Kenshin for a short time. He appeared serious for the first time since he appeared, as well as the noble man his surname alluded to. "... I won't lie to you. It won't be easy. Bringing your Inner Hollow into line never is. It's a face off with fear itself - you let that fear get to you and it's all over. It's as much a mental battle as a physical one, after all."

"I tried, though I'm really sure if I actually came close to killing them. My shinigami powers are pretty underdeveloped as well so I am not the strongest of opponents." Kenshin fell silent once more as the other two men conversed, smiling in a slightly forced manner when Rosuto mentioned drinks. The forced smile vanished instantly as Rosuto started to mention how difficult an endeavor he was hoping to undertake. "I realized some time back that it was not going to be easy to deal with this, have been trying to control it on my own and dealing with it as best as I can. Everything I have tried has failed but if you think you can teach me to control my inner hollow then I will willingly undergo any hardship."

"Good answer!" Rosuto replied, bringing his full attention back to Kenshin. "I'm just making sure, though. If we do this, we go all the way until you can control it. There cannot be any half measures, not in this. So what do you say we hit while the irons hot? Follow me."

"I will drop in later, Kenshin. Good luck," Naibu said simply as he waved goodbye. The black-haired Shizuka clansmen walked off into the distance, intent to be about his duties while content at the same time knowing that Kenshin would get the aid he needed.

Rosuto began moving soon after Naibu's departure, leaping into the air and hovering in place with the use of Shunpo. "How much experience do you have facing off against an enemy as strong as your Inner Hollow?" If he knew that he could determine what level to subject Kenshin to before he even faced off against his Inner Hollow.

"Alright," Kenshin replied, "Lets go." He nodded once as Naibu left them and returned his wave with a raised hand and a smile. He then followed Rosuto up into the air and came to rest next to him. Upon hearing Rosuto's question he thought back on the various fights he had, the small time hollows, the training sessions with Ryū. While Ryū was most probably much stronger than his Inner Hollow, he had never really pushed him as far while training him. The only times he had actually faced off a strong opponent and had had the limits of his powers tested was while confronting his Inner Hollow within his mind. "Not much, my mentor Ryū, who's a former Captain from the Gotei 13, is the strongest person I have gone up against and that was just training so he didn't push me too far. I'd have to say the few times I tried to confront my Inner Hollow were the only times I experienced facing such an enemy."

Rosuto took hold of Kenshin's outfit, were he proceeded to flash step himself and his newest student to the training grounds outside the Yuengiri Academy in the Upper Heights of Horiwari. After a brief lapse of time, Rosuto came to a stop and released the youngster with quick apologies for the rough handling. "So your mentor, who never pushed your limits, was the strongest person you've ever fought?" The elder began pacing around the square arena constructed of Sekkiseki stone, features unreadable. He finally raised his hand to his face and made a swift "ripping" motion, which was followed by spiritual matter forming upon his face; which eventually gave way to reveal a menacing mask. Even his hair seemed to darken to a shade of brown, while his eyes shone with an unnatural yellow light.

"Let's remedy that," Rosuto said with a distinct dual-tone much more menacing than his normal tone of voice. "Get a feel for my energy, 'cause it will help during your own confrontation. But don't think of this as a training session, Kenshin. Try and kill me, because mercy and doubt are two things that won't wash with an Inner Hollow." To further prove the seriousness of his notion, the Shiba clansmen drew his zanpakutō and took a ready stance with the blade laid over his left forearm towards Kenshin.

Kenshin was shocked a little by the sudden move but quickly took his bearings in what was obviously a training ground. He would normally have bluntly berated Rosuto in his own way for the rough manner of his transportation but something about his direct manner appealed to him. It seemed much more easier to deal with. As the older shinigami drew forth his mask, Kenshin could feel the sudden accumulation of sinister spiritual pressure around Rosuto. He looked much more sinister now, even his voice was different. But he seemed perfectly in control of himself. That simple realization blew away any reservation Kenshin might have had till then. This man was his best bet at learning to control his inner hollow and get some semblance of control back in his life. The way he had been living for the past few months was not right, he was meant to be in control of his life, his body, his fate. Not some dark manifestation within his mind. He would end this problem and the first steps would be taken right now.

Drawing his katana, he spoke softly but firmly, Talk, Hōkatsu. As the black hilt turned white in his eyes, his perception greatly increased. He could feel Rosuto's spiritual pressure much more clearly than before, perceive it in ways he had not been able to before. Not just sense it but get a feel for its potency, its inherent darkness and below it all the shining light of Rosuto's core. Accepting Rosuto's warning to hold nothing back, he rushed in. A few feet from him he suddenly used flash steps to move to the air right above and behind Rosuto and pointing the index finger of his free hand straight at the small of Rosuto's back he shouted, ''' Hadō #4. Byakurai''', releasing a powerful lightning bolt from the tip of his extended finger.

Rosuto watched the youngsters movements with a degree of anticipation. His heart was beginning to beat faster as adrenaline pumped around his body. He could tell when he met Kenshin earlier that he had an Inner Hollow, for the remnants of the spiritual energy resulting from that brief confrontation still hung heavy; almost like an odor on his spiritual aura. When the youngster released Rosuto's anticipation only grew. Nothing outward changed that he was aware of, though Kenshin was moving as though he were of greater understanding.

"Ōra," Rosuto uttered as Kenshin moved to his back. As the bolt of lightning struck a full-body aura of energy engulfed Rosuto's being, granting increased defense against outside forces; including those made by spiritual energy. "Not bad, kid. Fast, cunning... but you lack that killer edge. That one instinct." The blow had held plenty of it, to be truthful, though Rosuto was trying to make him angry. His father had told him once long ago that "anger is only a single letter short of danger, and an angry person is indeed a very dangerous one."

"If it helps, think of me as your Inner Hollow." Rosuto relocated himself via Shunpo, reappearing at the other side of the training ground. Exerting spiritual energy around his person and not outward, the Shiba clansmen formed four balls of purple flame that danced around his body. One of the flame balls on the right began circling him faster and faster until Rosuto extended his hand, causing the ball to streak towards Kenshin. "Come on! Nothing in this world comes easy! If you want anything then you need to be prepared to fight for it!"

Kenshin's only reply to Rosuto's instigation was a slight grunt as he slightly tightened his grip on his zanpakuto. Rosuto wanted him to show the killer edge, to think of him as his own Inner Hollow and attack him with his all. That was something that wasn't too difficult for Kenshin to imagine, after all Rosuto's presence was so dark right now that he felt more like his inner hollow that almost anything Kenshin had ever encountered. As the ball of flame streaked in towards him, Kenshin studied the attack and unlike with his inner hollow, Hōkatsu provided the answer he was looking for. By the time the attack reached him he was able to analyse the attack and as it reached him he was ready with an equal and opposite amount of spiritual energy which quickly cancelled out the attack. But due to his lack of control a small part of the attacks energy was not dissipated and exploded close to Kenshin's face, bruising him slightly and sending him flying backwards.

As he pushed himself off the round, his face bruised and bleeding, his breath coming in a little slowly, he started feeling himself slipping away. At first he was a little scared that if he suffered from one of his "episodes" then it could result in a lot of trouble for Rosuto. But then he realized that that was actually better, after all Rosuto did seem to want him to come at him with everything. A manic smile started spreading on his face as he pushed himself into the air and began rushing towards Rosuto, slashing his sword wildly and rushing blindly in, completely disregarding the remaining spheres. Instead his mind was completely concentrated on attacking as he let loose with an attack of his own, gathering reishi in his arms and sending a burst of lightning flying towards Rosuto.

Rosuto couldn't help but grin through his surprise at Kenshin's directness. It was a breathe of fresh air to the elder of the two, in fact. He was used to his students standing in awe of his power or skill, who pulled their punches out of respect for him. Kenshin didn't have that problem. In the space of a few moments he observed a drastic change in the young man before him. Before he had been analytical. Now he was akin to a berserker rushing in, though the lightning surprised him further. After all, it was a field of elemental manipulation Rosuto had come to expect from his brother, Kenji, as his younger sibling used it against him almost exclusively during their training sessions.

"That's it!" Rosuto finally roared. "Attack with everything, like your life depended on it!" Rosuto slashed backwards and then forward with great speed, meeting the lightning bolt with his sealed zanpakutō wreathed in fiery spiritual energy to disrupt the flow of the elemental energies; which resulted in a cancellation of both incoming forces, though not before a series of sparks from said stream of lightning flashed before Rosuto's eyes, dazzling him momentarily.

A wide smile appeared on Kenshin's face, more maniacal and sinister than amusing. As a light chuckle escaped from his lips, he rushed forward once more. But with his inhibitions about accidentally hurting Rosuto gone he was moving much faster now, faster than he had thought himself to be capable of moving. As lightning once more appeared from his hands, he directed it not towards Rosuto but along the length of his blade, covering it in the blue lightning. If Rosuto was even scratched by this the lightning would get a straight path into his body and even momentary contact would be enough to transfer sufficient charge to give him a nice little shock. But as he moved in, his blade flying in and out as he executed jab after jab at his opponent, his eyes start to darken at the edges.

Even in this state of mind he realized that this was his Inner Hollow trying to break out once more. But while in his normal state he would have stopped his attack on Rosuto and concentrated on pushing his Hollow back down, in this crazy state he just pushed on harder, his hands thrusting forward with increased speed. What he did not notice till the last moment was that the blood on his face was starting to harden and a single thick stream of blood had flowed down from his left eye and coagulated to form a brown streak down one side of his face. His Inner Hollow attacked his mind with such ferocity that he was unable to control it for a second and the left half of his face was momentarily covered in his hollow mask as he lost control. As he watched on helplessly a sinister voice floated into his head, Let me show you how it is done, fool. Kenshin's hand rose into the air as he pointed his finger at Rosuto and let loose with a powerful Cero.

But in that instance, as his Inner Hollow exerted himself, Kesnhin saw a weakness he had not seen before and exerting himself managed to suppress his hollow once more. As he regained his composure, he noticed that he was kneeling on the ground once more, both hands on the ground as well as to support himself. He was himself once more, the episode having ended with the Hollow attack. Immediately he thought of Rosuto, looking up to see what had happened to his teacher.

Rosuto watched the entire episode with caution and equal amounts of curiosity. The youngster he was training had changed. It didn't take a genius to notice that or pick up on the smile that was slowly becoming more crazy. But he was still in control and the Shiba clansmen couldn't help but feel that in this state, with this focus on offense, he might just be able to pull off what he wanted. After all, if he could bring this to bear against him, surely he could manage the same against his Inner Hollow. Rooted to the spot like some great tree, Rosuto kept up his observations even as Kenshin's lightning-imbued blade came in close.

But then it happened. It would've been close to impossible to notice if he hadn't been observing so closely, but Kenshin's eyes were slowly showing the signs. The only question left was how much time before he was fighting for his soul? "Aggression is the emotion most linked with Hollowfication," Rosuto noted as his eyes narrowed. The entire air about Rosuto changed however as the half-mask that signaled possession fell across Kenshin's face. For Rosuto, who saw this type of thing everyday, he was unphased. But had it been a younger Rosuto he doubted very much whether or not he could hold back his blade from making that fatal cut.

"Not good!" He said in reply to the Cero flying towards him! He didn't know the full strength of Kenshin's Inner Hollow, nor did he know how much of a boost Kenshin's own skills grew when under its influence. Playing it safe this time wasn't an option. The white kimono Rosuto favored fell from his shoulders and dangled freely behind him even as the slight white aura that signaled his activation of Shunkō appeared briefly across his shoulders before disappearing. The pressurized Kidō wasn't visible though Rosuto's entire aura had changed. "Hanki," While designed for Kidō of opposite strength and speed, with the proper tweaking, it could cancel other skills as well; namely Cero. His hand slashed vertically and caught that Cero at the bottom! With a surge of energy that repulsed throughout the entire blast, the energy finally shook before collapsing completely and leaving nothing but a faint residual outline were the blast once was.

Walking forward, the air around Rosuto vanished as he deactivated both his Shunkō and Hollow mask combination. "I'd bet that's the shortest possession you've ever had," The elder asked with an outstretched hand. An expression very close to being proud was set across his features, indicating the feelings he didn't put into words. It wasn't easy doing what Kenshin had just done, after all.

Breathing a little deeply, Kenshin grasped the proffered hand and pulled himself to his feet. "Yes, yes it was." A smile started to appear on his face as the implications of that simple statement hit him. He had managed to do what he had been trying for so long, albeit it was due to his Hollow's preoccupation with attacking Rosuto. If he had not been so absorbed with attacking the older shinigami, Kenshin would not have been able to advance even this far. He realized then, with the insight that Hōkatsu was offering him, that this weakness could only have been visible to him if his inner hollow was distracted by something else. That was where he had been wrong all this time, he had to realize the simple fact that if he could not accomplish something on his own then he should accept aid from others. Realizing how much simpler his life would have been if he had convinced Ryū to push him into a similar situation, a self-depreciating smile appeared on his face. "Thank you, I doubt I could have come this far without your aid. I think now that I am ready to step this up, it's time I gave this hollowfication another try. I suppose you will take care of him if I fail to control him? Your control over your powers seems to be at another level all together."

Rosuto waved his hand lazily as though waving the offered thanks aside. It wasn't the first time he had helped someone else gain better control or understanding of their Inner Hollow and he seriously doubted that it would be his last either. After all, Hollowfication wasn't as rare as everyone seemed to believe it to be. Look in the right places with the drive to find someone with the powers and you'll find them. Even within the Order's latest recruits or the students within the very academy he and Kenshin were sparring there were those with their own Hollow problems. "You have everything you need, Kenshin. Resolve and willpower are important parts of the puzzle and you haven't lost those pieces."

Turning in place, Rosuto looked to the heavens as though hoping to reach up and pluck something from the heavens. He was silent for a time before nodding his head as he turned. "A good friend of mine called Maki Zhijun told my brother something once. I'll give you the shorter version, 'cause the old goat can go on a bit. Fire above the mark you intend to hit. Energy and the invincible determination with the right motive, are the levers that move the world. The rest comes from me. When you face your Inner Hollow, don't settle for anything less than victory. He's the invader. The bully. The monster. Everything anyone can ever hate in this world. And what's the best way to a deal with a bully?" That last part was said with a cheeky smile. "At least that's the mentality I went in with. We can train a little more if you like, or you can go for it now. The choice is yours." "I understand what you are saying, it is time I showed him who is boss. I think I need to do this now, settle this once and for all, I finally think I have spotted a weakness and it would be best to strike when the iron's hot." Saying so Kenshin jumped a few steps back and settled down on the ground, Hōkatsu placed on his lap. As he closed his eyes he had one last look of Rosuto standing in front of him and nodded to his teacher before descending into the depths of his mind. When he next opened his eyes he was standing in the dessert once more, the wind blowing sand into his eyes. As he brought up his hands to clear his eyes he noticed a figure dressed in red and black standing in front of him, arms folded in front of his chest. "Hōkatsu, y.." But Kenshin's words were cut of as Hōkatsu raised his hands and pointed behind him, "It is time, he is here."

As he turned around Kenshin saw a figure that would have been his mirror image, had it not been for the white skin, the white and yellow eyes and the sinister aura emanating from him. There were no words uttered between then, they knew exactly what was in each other's mind, one fight and the stakes were simple, winner takes all. No deliberation, no testing each other's strength. He looked back once at Hōkatsu and as their eyes locked a sense of understanding passed between them, a new light appearing within his mind that now illuminated that which was till now hidden from him. Kenshin knew with his new found clarity exactly where he had to attack, he could feel that he had ascended to a new level of understanding with Hōkatsu and was willing to risk everything on that understanding, to put his all on the line. Drawing his blade he rushed forward into life with his very soul on the line.

A little while later he opened his eyes to see Rosuto standing in front of him once more and letting out a long breath he smiled and rose to his feet. Putting his hands in front of his face he pulled it down in a swiping motion to draw forth his hollow mask. "Ready for another round?"

Rosuto watched both eagerly and somewhat warily as Kenshin finally faced his inner demons. Would he succeed? Or would he be overcome by the force he wished to put in its place? There were always many factors to consider when facing one's Inner Hollow. The battle itself wasn't the only part of it. The Hollow at least in Rosuto's experience encountering his own and hearing about others told him they delighted in the psychological torture of their hosts - essentially driving them through fear and other manipulation into making a mistake. It didn't always work, but Rosuto had also seen others who had not bested their Hollow and were instead devoured. Those he had promptly struck down. Now as he looked upon Kenshin's progress he was seriously doubting he'd need to take it that far, though he also realized he needed to be safe as well. If worse came to worse he would do what needed to be done.

But as it turned out his fears were unfounded. After a short time of Rosuto watching almost without movement, young Kenshin came out of his encounter and promptly donned a Hollows mask. The action brought a little smile to Rosuto's face, who promptly donned his own. "He can hold it surprisingly well." Maybe his zanpakutō had a hand in that? Rosuto wasn't sure, but what he was sure of was that Kenshin was in full control of himself. "So you won, eh? Congratulations. But don't rest at this level. The battle for control is never over, Kenshin. Give him another chance to take control he will try. Don't give him an opening. Now-" He said sharply "- it's time to see what your capable of." Rosuto waved his hand as if to say "come on".

Kenshin nodded in reply to Rosuto's first question, "Yes, thanks to Hōkatsu's help I have suppressed my Inner Hollow. And don't worry, I have no intention of ever letting him take over again, I plan to make sure he never gets the chance." He flexed his fingers and for a moment thought back on the fight he had just had, there were no physical scars left but there were emotional ones. But he had overcome those roadblocks, scars were all that were left, scars that made him stronger, reminded him of what he had overcome. Now all that was left to do was to see just how far he had come, to test his new powers.

He slowly raised his hand and pointing his palm straight at Rosuto began speaking quickly, "Ye lord! Mask of blood and flesh, all creation, flutter of wings, ye who bears the name of Man! Inferno and pandemonium, the sea barrier surges, march on to the south!" He then suddenly flash stepped towards Rosuto and appearing to his left released a crimson blast of energy towards him, "Hadō #31. Shakkahō". Knowing full well that despite the increase in his strength such an attack would be useless against an enemy such as Rosuto, he once more flash stepped to a new location and now appearing behind Rosuto uttered a single word, "Cero," and before the first attack had even died out, released a brilliant and destructive blast of blue energy at Rosuto.

Rosuto slashed horizontally, splitting the Shakkahō straight up the middle. Following that he blasted spiritual energy to repel the two halves away from his body before turning to face what his eyes and ears told him was a Cero. That brought his eyebrows up in surprise. "He only learned to activate his powers and he can already fire a Cero!?" The surprise factor caused Rosuto to be struck head-on, immersing the Shiba clansmen in brilliant blue light that left one to wonder his status.

"I'm curious," A voice sounded before the blue energy around Rosuto's former location burst apart to reveal the elder of the two combatants standing with mild burns across his body. His kosode was ripped and torn, more so around the left shoulder and arm area; which was also more thoroughly burnt than the rest of his body. After all, his right arm was mostly untouched. "If I hadn't been here to witness your confrontation, I'd swear you'd been using that mask for years. A Cero? Not simple parlor tricks. You said Hōkatsu helped you... what did you mean? My own Nichiyō Rōzuobu helped me but not to the degree of being able to pull off a Cero on my first try. Your mask durations pretty far along as well." Just what the hell was going on here?

Kenshin smiled inwardly at Rosuto's confusion, it was understandable after all. His progress was quite rapid after all, even he himself had not thought that he would come this far thins quickly. But the difficult part would be trying to explain to Rosuto exactly how he had advanced to the level that he had. Drawing a hand over is face he released his mask, letting it disperse into spiritual energy one more. "I guess to give you a good answer I would have to explain my Hōkatsu's abilities to you. You see, Hōkatsu lets me observe things around me and understand them in a way that would seem almost impossible to anyone else, completely understand how they work. I can look at a watch and immediately understand how it was made, how it runs, how to fix it if it is broken. But it isn't limited to such objects, I can use it to study techniques, abilities, spells, even the very nature of one's soul."

At this point he paused for a second, thinking back on what had happened after he had defeated his inner hollow. "That last bit is actually something new for me, I had never before been able to see into a living being and study them just like any other system. Attempts at doing that only resulted in failure. But I advanced to a new level of understanding with Hōkatsu during our fight and that was how I gained this level of mastery over these powers. You see, my inner hollow wasn't born as a result of any external influence. I inadvertently created it while trying to study a hollow's powers. I wasn't ready to use Hōkatsu's powers to study a sentient being just then and without knowing how managed to give birth to my inner hollow. So in a way my inner hollow is a part of me, a manifestation of my darker half. After defeating it I managed to finally be able to see eye to eye with it, understand it like never before. It's abilities are now mine, I understand them as if they were always mine."

Rosuto remained quiet throughout the explanation, never once raising a question or interrupting the youngster before him. In all his time teaching others and guiding the Ryū Orders youth, he had never encountered an aspect of Hollowfication - in this case the aftereffects - that he had never before seen. But the one motion he did make involved him releasing his own mask, allowing it to fade away as well as the dark feeling that hung about his aura when donned. When Kenshin came to the end of his explanation Rosuto had a thought of his own. Did Naibu know about Kenshin's powers? Did he guess at this outcome, or merely take the youth to him on a whim; based solely on his past exploits with others who spawned an Inner Hollow within themselves? One thing was for certain. Rosuto would be quizzing a certain Shizuka clansmen when this day was done.

If he had know about Hōkatsu and its power, he could have devised a training program that maximized that trait and allowing Kenshin even more understanding of his own powers. When his pupil finished, Rosuto merely began pacing for a time, seemingly lost in thought. That didn't last long. "You said your powers of understanding increased during our battle. I take it this hasn't been the first time this has happened?" If so, then the best course for Kenshin was probably a learn-as-you-fight method against as many different races as he could.

Kenshin nodded upon hearing Rosuto's question, "Yes, this has happened before. I actually learned my first Kidō spell during a fight with Ryū. That was the first time I truly understood what Hōkatsu was trying to say to me. Seems to me that Hōkatsu just likes pushing me to the limit before sharing his secrets with me, or maybe its the other way around. Maybe only when I am being pushed to the limit am I open enough to him to be able to understand what he is saying."

"It's certainly a possibility," Rosuto replied. "But regardless of reason or method, it is clear that your zanpakutō will continue to be a driving force in the development of your powers. With such a power your capacity to learn and understand a power will grow: a skill some are born with where others are not." But Rosuto stopped any further thoughts on the subject as his stomach began rumbling. "Don't suppose you're hungry, are you? What do you say to a bite to eat? My treat for completing your training."

Kenshin was listening intently to what Rosuto was saying when he was suddenly interrupted by the rumbling of his stomach. Bursting out laughing, Kenshin sheathed his blade, suddenly realizing just how hungry he himself was. "Yes, thank you, I'd love to get some food. And thank you once more for helping me out like this." As he followed his teacher out of the training ground, Kenshin felt more relaxed and content than he had on a long time. He had finally managed to deal with his Inner Hollow and could finally go on with his life without having to constantly worrying about loosing control and hurting someone. As he felt his own stomach rumble in complain, he burst out laughing once more, glad that his worries now were as simple as finding food and not dealing with psychotic hollows intent on stealing control of his body.

End.