Sorry for the wait. It's been pretty hectic due to a combination of work and personal stuff. I've also been rewatching the Bount Arc as well as brainstorming my own original ideas as to how to make this arc more interesting.

Disclaimer: I don't own Bleach or Devil May Cry

With Friends Like These

Deep in the underground training area of Urahara's shop the master and student continued training. It had been nearly two weeks now since Nero had lost his bet with Yoruichi and took up her and Kisuke's offer to train him to use his spiritual power.

The first day had been spent trying to awaken his power. To do so Nero had to sit cross legged in a meditation position on the floor and tried to access his soul to connect to and unlock the powers it held within.

"Just search deep inside yourself" Yoruichi had calmly instructed to him "Feel out for your soul and when you do imagine it in the palm of your hands". She herself did the very same thing to show Nero how to do it as he watched her and tried to mimic her actions for himself.

It had taken a lot longer for Nero to do so than it did when the Shihoin noble woman had trained Orihime and Chad to awaken their powers. Most likely on the account he already had Demonic power which he kept on accidentally using instead but finally after hours of trying and words of encouragement from Yoruichi Nero managed to awaken his spiritual power at long last.

Nero held out both his hands with flat palms cupped together as Yoruichi had told him to do, he felt a jolt in his chest causing him to open his eyes, as he looked down there was a ball of azure blue energy formed in his hands. "Is this it? My soul powers".

Yoruichi nodded with a smile "Yep. That's your reiryoku in physical form, or reiatsu as we call it. The colour is also different per person". She leaned forward to get a better look at the ball of energy "Yours seems to be a royal blue colour which is pretty rare. Most peoples are pink, red or yellow. Though the colour doesn't have any effect on how weak or powerful someone is". She got up of the ground from where she'd been sitting "Well now you've awakened your power it's time we started showing you the ropes".

On their first day of real training Yoruichi went on to explain to the devil slayer the core abilities of a shinigami. "So here are the basics of what a Shinigami can do. First there's Kido which are combat spells and fuelled by the users spiritual power. There are three types of Kido. There's Bakudo which are defensive spells that can block and repel attacks and can bind the users opponents. You've already seen such a thing first hand when Soi Fon used such a spell on you in your fight when she pinned you to the wall".

'So that's what that was' Nero listened closely as she continued.

"Then there's Hado which are offensive spells which can inflict great damage to the enemy. And finally there's Kaido which focuses on the healing arts". Yoruichi further explained "Each Kido spell is granted a number on the scale from one to ninety nine, the higher the number the more powerful a spell and the more spirit energy is needed to fuel it. To use Kido a shinigami must recite the incantation of that spell. But depending on how skilled you are with Kido you can shorten the incantation. So someone who isn't very skilled in Kido would have to recite the full chant, though someone more skilled can skip the chant and just recite the Kido's number instead to cast it faster. For example". Yoruichi extended her left arm and rose a flat palm "Hado #54 Haien" a ball of fire shot from her hand and incinerated a nearby boulder to ash leaving not a pebble remaining.

"Cool" Nero admitted impressed at her skill then joked "Once I get my wand and broomstick I'll be head of my Quidditch team in no time".

"The books were better than the movies" Yoruichi bantered right back. "Anyway back to what I was saying. Next there's Hoho which is all about fast movement and speed techniques. Shunpo being the most well known of them". A sly prideful smile crept about her face "And I don't mean to brag but you should consider yourself lucky having me teach you this. I wasn't called the Goddess of Flash for nothing".

Nero met her eyes and jeered "I just thought people called you that because every time you meet someone your naked" after all she had done so to both himself and Ichigo. And from what Urahara had said it wasn't just the two of them she would do it to either.

"I didn't see you complaining when I did it" she winked back in a husky tone that would make most men weak. Getting back to the topic at hand she further notified "Anyway after that we have Hakuda the shinigami's special form of hand to hand combat. Everyone who joins the Onmitsukido has to learn this fighting form. The highest level of this is Shunko which only I and Soi Fon can use. Once more the element that those who use shunko wield varies from person to person. My element is thunder and lightning where as Soi Fon's is wind".

Nero then jested "Huh. So you're like a genuine Thundercat then". Yoruichi rolled her eyes but still chuckle lightly at his comment.

"And last but no least is Zanjutsu, the art of the sword. Which as the name implies is revolved around skill with a sword". The purplenette crossed her arms ".Since you don't have a Zanpakuto we'll skip those parts of Zanjutsu which revolve around Zanpakuto's and focus on the more traditional aspects. I'll be the one training you for the most part but Tessai and Kisuke will lend a hand when necessary, mainly for helping you learn Kido and Zanjutsu respectively".

"Why them?" the devil hunter wondered aloud.

"Tessai was the former commander of the Kido Corps in the Soul Society, he's one of the most skilled and knowledgeable people when it comes to Kido. And Kisuke was one of the best skilled swordsmen in the Soul Society before we left" Yoruichi responded in an informative manner.

He'd heard from Ichigo that much was true regarding the store owner "And you?" he couldn't help but ask curiously. After all Nero already knew from word of mouth and from seeing with his own eyes Yoruichi was a top tier fighter, he's been on the receiving end of said attacks after all. But still wondered just what she was efficient at.

Her golden eyes met his expecting his question "I'm have mastery at Kido too as it happens, but Tessai has more knowledge on the matter and was once responsible for helping teach the next generation of Kido users so knows how best to teach newcomers to the spells. And just because I don't use a sword doesn't mean I cant" she added with a sly gaze. "I was a Captain after all. But while I may be highly proficient at using a sword, without trying to brag I'm pretty much second to none when it comes to Hakuda.". Soi Fon being the only person close to her level of hand to hand skill. "But I will be the teaching you the basics of Zanjutsu. Kisuke will handle the more complex parts. That is unless he's unavailable in which case I'll fill in". Yoruichi though shrewdly 'Most likely Kisuke's just looking for an excuse to be able to teach Nero. That way he can brag to everyone at how both Nero and Ichigo were student of his. He can be so immature at times'.

"Got it. So what next" Nero asked.

"First we'll start with shunpo and move on from there". Yoruichi then looked to the white haired teen with a cocky smirk as she raised her head up high and began speaking in a haughty tone "Oh and that reminds me. While training I expect you to refer to me a Yoruichi-Sensei like a good little subordinate okay. I think it's only proper don't you" her eyes and smile widened at the expression he made.

Nero gave her a deadpan look and replied "There's no way I'm calling you that".

After that exchange Nero had begun his true training. Nero was as fast to learn the basics as Ichigo had been when Urahara had taught him prior to going to the Soul Society. Yoruichi proved a great teacher despite her constant trolling and playful attitude which Nero actually enjoyed. It almost reminded him of when Dante used to train him to use the various Devil Styles of fighting. 'Though I'll admit Yoruichi's a lot nicer to look at as a teacher than Dante'. Shunpo had been easy enough to learn though he still couldn't get the grasp of creating speed clones on the level of realism Yoruichi could, though she had said that in time and with more training he probably would be able to. After all it was still early days. You cant expect someone to master all forms of fighting in such a short time. His name was Nero not Gary Stu.

Kido was the next subject he was taught. To which thanks to the teachings of Tessai and help from Yoruichi Nero had been able to learn several spells, though the higher level ones were still ways off from him. But was able to use at least the low level spells with some efficiency. And without needing to do the whole chant either. Tessai proved a great trainer as well. He was always patient and no matter how much Nero messed up a spell would simply offer him tips on how to improve.

When it came to Zanjutsu Kisuke had been his main trainer in that matter though Yoruichi had also taught him some moves as well and true to her word she was also a great swords woman. Nero was already a great swordsman being both self taught and also trained by Credo back when he was in the Order and Dante there after. Dante had taught him some of what he named Dark Slayer Style which focused around katana's and fast and precise attacks, but due to time restraints Dante hadn't been able to teach him much. In fact Nero still had yet to even master the Slash Dimension move. But even he had to admit some of the shinigami sword arts were highly effective.

As for his Hakuda lessons Yoruichi alone had been the one to take the mantle of his training there. Nero was already highly effective at hand to hand thanks to what Dante had taught him but even Nero had to concede when it came to hand to hand Yoruichi may have been the most skilled fighter he had ever met. She could take him on even when he was armed with his sword and still knock him down. If one ever thought Yoruichi suicidal for taking on enemies armed with blades while she herself had only her fists you just need one lesson with her to see how wrong you were.

Over the course of two weeks Nero's spiritual power and skills with the shinigami arts developed faster than anticipated. And when combined with the demonic powers Nero already had his overall power and skills had risen above what they had been prior to his training, and of course he was now finally able to sense the reiatsu of others and fly. 'Guess awakening my soul powers was a good idea after all'. He still wasn't on the level of Yamamoto or Aizen but ones power didn't just increase in an instant, it took time, hard work and training.

The devil hunter also enjoyed that fortnight not just for the new skills he'd gained but for the time he got to spend with the others at Urahara's Shop whom aside from Yoruichi he hadn't really spoke to all that much prior to this. Nearly every bit of spar time he had he spent at Urahara's training and so spent more time with the others there. He had barely spent any time with Tessai before but while training with him in Kido the two had begun to bond. Jinta was still a little brat to him at times but according to everyone else that was just how he showed he liked someone. Ururu was just as shy as she was sweet even still now having spent more time around Nero, she reminded him a little of when he had first met Kyrie when they were both still kids.

Nero had as well grown closer to Kisuke during their time together, referring to him now on a first name basis as per Kisuke's request. Nero felt that Kisuke had some alternative motive for training him but that didn't stop Nero from appreciating his help. Kisuke also divulged certain stories of the past he spent as a kid living at Yoruichi's home and some of the more embarrassing parts of that time much to Yoruichi's annoyance and chagrin.

Flashback

They all sat around the table in the living room after a long day of training. They were feasting on an assortment of rice and okonomiyaki. There were bottles of sake and tea's to drink from though Tessai had made it clear that both Jinta and Ururu being underage weren't allowed the sake. Jinta had made some comment under his breathe at that but instantly regretted it when Tessai whacked him on the noggin.

Nero took a bite of the pancake and swallowed "This is actually pretty good. Complements to the chef".

Tessai accepted the compliment gratefully "Well its nice to know someone around here can appreciate my cooking".

Kisuske somehow knew that was directed at him "Hey. I've always thought you were a good cook".

Tessai hummed "Well a simple thank you goes a long way. Right Jinta" the spiky red haired kid turned away flustered. "Anyway should know Nero that I wasn't the only one who made this. Yoruichi also lent a hand".

"She did?" Nero glanced over to Yoruichi who met his gaze with a smile "Gotta say never thought a high born princess would bother with cooking".

Yoruichi adopted a false offended look "I'll have you know cooking is something I also excel at. When I was younger my families chefs and Tessai taught me. After all even though I was a noble it was always best to be prepared for anything. You never know when you'll need to fend and feed yourself".

"Well" Urahara mumbled sending the dark skinned woman a subtle look from the shadow of his hat "You seem to be forgetting that time when you thought English pie had jam in it".

Yoruichi bristled and blushed a little at the memory "I was just a kid! And how was I supposed to know the recipe pages were stuck together. And what's the deal with English having the same word with a different meaning. How was I supposed to know jam meant jelly in British English when the book I was reading was American. Why do Humans have to make things so complicated". Those at the table laughed at her embarrassment making her lower her shoulders in shame.

"Well" Jinta spoke up to Nero "You've certainly got the hang of all this training better than that loud mouth ginger guy did. Though if you ask me you should be doing some work around the store with all this free work out and board you're getting".

Tessai slapped the bratty kid on the back of the head "Don't be rude in front of our guest boy! Just for that you'll be the one cleaning the toilets tomorrow. Don't look at me like that you brought this on yourself".

"Jinta may have not put it in the best words but he is correct" Kisuke swallowed some of his rice. "Your skills have developed far faster than one normally would take to learn. Who knows how much you'll improve after months let alone two weeks".

Nero shook a loose strand of his white hair from his eyes "So you're saying with more time my Shinigami Style will be even better huh" he said with put on pride.

The Shihoin heiress sighed jovially with a shake of her head "I really wished you didn't have to call it that".

"Well your habit of giving your fighting techniques terrible names aside" Kisuke pushed that matter out the way. "The fact is that just like we thought given that you have better access and control over your spiritual power your … ahem Hollow Style has also improved" he made his thoughts on the terrible style name known by the way he spoke it. "Your cero's are now much more powerful than when you first acquired them. And to think you didn't even want to train. Don't you know by know I'm always right" he said the last part in an upbeat way.

Nero rolled his eyes at the man's eccentric ways "Yeah yeah. I get it".

They spoke some more on Nero's training as well as some small talk on some of the recent tv shows they had watched like normal people do. It was times like these that Nero enjoyed the most. Sure training and growing stronger was always good but just siting around, talking and having fun with friends was a feeling nothing could beat. 'If only times like these could last, and we didn't have to think about the enemies out there waiting to pounce'.

"So Nero" Kisuke spoke up "I have to ask. How is it. With Yoruichi as your teacher. I bet I could name a few pros and cons myself".

"Its alright I guess" the devil hunter shrugged. "Yoruichi's not as bad as she lets on … well almost anyway".

"Why thank you Nero" the purplenette beamed with arrogance "But I still insist on being called Yoruichi-Sensei. As your teacher and senior I think its only natural" her Cheshire cat smile spread across her beautiful face.

Nero saw an opening in her words and chose to act on it "Actually now that you say it like that maybe you're right, maybe I should call you sensei" Yoruichi gave him a victorious look before Nero pulled the rug out from under her. "I mean you are my senior. By two centuries. Pretty soon you'll have crows feet to go with your cat paws. And as they say in Japan it always good to treat the elderly with respect".

A flash of yellow lightning shot forth in a split second from the dark skinned woman's palm which made contact and singed the devil slayers face. She then turned away with a grump pout and tick mark on her forehead 'He should think himself lucky thats all I did to him for that'.

All the others at the table watched the event unfold with dumbfound looks. "Cant help but feel you brought that on yourself Nero" Kisuke looked over to the injured teen. 'Though it seems Yoruichi still held back a little anyway, cant imagine what she'd have done if anyone else said that. Looks like she has a soft spot for him after all whether she knows it or not'.

During his free time after training Nero had eventually gone out to the bar in town with Yoruichi in her gigai. Though the two of them still refused to ever bring up what happened at the bridge in Sendai. But it was an event forever etched into both of their memories and something they couldn't ignore forever.

Flashback

"Well its not as cozy as the place we went to in Sendai but its still nice I suppose" Yoruichi had begun to grow more accustomed to her gigai now. Though comfortable would never be something she would be.

"Cheaper too" Nero looked at the prices.

Yoruichi gave an unimpressed look "Wow. You really now how to treat a girl". Earlier that day Kisuke had received a message from the Head Captain himself informing him that like he had guessed even Myuri Kurotsuchi had been unable to find a way to get Nero back home. "So. How are you?".

"What. Worried I'm gonna get all emo like when Kisuke told me I couldn't get back home" the snow haired devil chuckled but there was no humour in his voice. "I'm fine I guess" he admitted. "Pretty much expected that to be the case anyway so cant say I'm surprised".

"Still I'm sorry it didn't work out" Yoruichi sympathetically replied.

"What" Nero grinned with false hurt "Trying to get rid of me so fast. And here I thought you were starting to like me".

The dark skinned woman giggled with a roll of her eyes "And whatever gave you that impression" she smirked.

The two spoke some more until Nero brought up the topic of what he had gone through in one of the secret labs on Fortuna. "Dice?" Yoruichi squinted in confusion. "You're telling me some super evil scientist made a security system where you had to play dice to get though".

"Yeah" Nero scoffed "Most annoying game I've ever had to play. I swear if someone ever makes me play dice again before a fight I'll just give them the win there and then so I don't have to go through that crap again". Even to this day the devil hybrid could never understand just what Agnus was thinking with that dice game of his.

Yoruichi eased back in her seat "Its a shame Kisuke couldn't come" unfortunately he had aid he was busy with some side project. 'Something about Mod Souls or something. I wasn't really listening properly'.

"What. Not enjoying my company. That hurts my feeling" the devil slayer said with sarcasm.

The Shihoin princess leaned forward resting her elbows on the table and leered in a suggestive way "Well I guess I'll just have to find a way to make you feel better wont I".

Nero chuckled and met her gaze "If that's the case then you should know just how much that hurt".

The two remained that way looking into each others eyes until they both had a flashback of that night in Sendai. Causing them both to look away and clear there throats. Thankfully the rest of the night never got as heated then on. But it didn't take a genius to see the tension between them. The only one trying to ignore it were to two of them themselves.

Nero had a pretty jam packed couple of weeks but he still enjoyed them and was truly beginning to feel at home in this new world. But today was the day when he would put all the new skills he had acquired to the test. Nero and the trio of exiled soul reapers all stood in the underground training facility of Urahara's.

"Alright so today marks exactly two weeks now since you awakened your spiritual power" Yoruichi began with crossed arms over her chest. "And so we all deemed it fitting to mark such an occasion by seeing how well you've took in what you've learnt".

Urahara coughed to get the devil's attention "Normally when a student enrols at the academy and starts training we wait months before their first test but you seem to be picking up on techniques far faster than most" it reminded him of how Ichigo had also picked up the shinigami arts with surprising speed. "And remember this is all about testing your reiryoku so don't use any of your demonic powers. Got it".

"But rest assured" Tessai said still wearing his store apron. "This is only a test so none of us will be going all out. We just want to see how you can put what you have learnt to use in a real battle".

"So don't worry. We'll go easy on you, don't want to bruise that pretty face of yours" Yoruichi grinned cheekily putting one hand on her hip. "Well. You ready?".

Nero smirked back, swinging Red Queen down into the ground and revved the exceed system "Oh I'm ready. It's time to get this party started!".

'Well if that's how he wants to play it. I suppose I'll begin'. Kisuke was the first to strike. The blonde shinigami sped forward with his zanpakuto and unsheathed from its cane and clashed his blade against Nero's own much larger one. "What. Not planning on using your Yamato. I'm a little offended".

Nero held his ground against the older man "Don't think I need to just yet". Thanks to his training with Yoruichi and Urahara he was now far more skilled at using a katana than before with his limited training in Dark Slayer Style, but still his Red Queen would always hold a place in his heart as his preferred blade. He had so many memories of it from when times were simpler. And the Yamato would always be his trump card to pull out when all else failed.

A slight chortle escaped Kisuke "Well in that case how's about I kick things up a notch" he jumped back making distance between himself and Nero and held up his caned blade. "Awaken Benihime" the thin cane sword transformed into a sleek medium sized blade, the guard was 'U' shaped with a flower petal carved in, and at both the base of the guard and pommel were red tassels. "Well then. How's about we see how well your Red Queen can stand against my Crimson Princess".

Kisuke pulled back his sword "Scream" when he swung his sword in an arch a red wave of energy came off the sword towards his opponent. Nero hit the attack head on with his charged Red Queen's exceed causing a large explosion when the two forces met protecting the teen from taking it instead.

Urahara leapt up into the air, his zanpakuto began to glow as what looked like netting circled around the metal blade. "Shibari, Benihime". A red pattern almost like a fish net was flung from the sword down towards the snow haired male.

The crimson netting was almost in range of Nero threatening to catch him like a fish in a net. Before it could however Nero raised his right hand and fired a cero at the netting blasting the attack away in a plume of smoke.

Through the smoke cloud Kisuke emerged to catch Nero off guard, but Nero had been ready, he dodged the former captains attack and brought down his own blade to give a light tap on the man's striped green hat then jumped back a meter or so from the blonde with a smirk on his face. Confusing the blonde store owner as to what that had been about 'Huh. That attack didn't seem to have to much power in it. What did he mean too …' the hat then split in half down the middle in a clean cut, both halves on the hat falling to the floor along with some strands of sandy coloured hair.

Kisuke shunpo'd a distance away and looked down to his carved hat 'So he's mastered Hozuri. One of the Zanjutsu arts. And his cero blasts are now much stronger than they were to begin with. Good, now lets see what else he can do'.

As if sensing what his friend was thinking Tessai intercepted before Nero could launch another attack on Kisuke. "Hado #63 Raikoho".

"What the" Nero turned to see a large lightning bolt coming towards him, 'Lets fight fire with fire' instead of trying to dodge or take the attack head on he decided to test out the Kido he had been learning "Bakudo #8 Seki". A light blue ball formed in front on Nero which absorbed the lightning bolt completely "Alright! That worked". It took some focus on his part to keep the spell stable enough to absorb the attack but he had managed to do so all the same.

"Truly impressive considering you have only recently begun to learn Kido" Tessai admitted. "Though I suggest in a real battle to never stop and admire your own work". Tessai fired more Hado spells at the teen but Nero was able to either dodge or block them with his blade or his low level Hado barriers. 'He may only be able to use low level spells at the moment but the fact that he can actually block my attacks is extraordinary. I can see what Kisuke and Yoruichi both see in him'.

Nero successfully produced another Bakudo barrier to block one of Tessai's spells while with his free hand fired a cero at another cancelling it out.

"Hado #31 Shakkaho!" Tessai fired a red beam out of his hands aimed towards the devil hunter.

Nero decided to match the spell with his own "Had #31 Shakkaho!". Less than two days ago he had to use the full chant to use this spell but had quickly began to be able to use it without it thanks to Yoruichi's help. 'This whole magic thing is pretty neat after all. I wonder why Ichigo's never bothers to learn it'.

The two Hado spells hit each other head on resulting in a large blast of power and smoke so Tessai decided to raise the level a bit more than maybe he should have "Hado #88 Hiryu Gekizoku Shinten Raiho!".

Nero stared wide eyed at the oncoming beam of blue electrical energy 'Shit. No way I can block that'. He used shunpo to dash out the way of the attack which hit the ground behind him resulting in a massive boom of fire and smoke.

Kisuke watching the whole thing sweat dropped "Maybe a little over the top don't you think Tessai".

While in mid air Nero felt a spike of power appearing from behind him 'This feeling … it's'. In a flash Nero used shunpo to speed over to an outcropped rock.

"Well you were able to sense my reiatsu from behind at least" Yoruichi smirked from up high were Nero had just been. "But lets see if you can keep up as well".

With that the two went at it. Both using shunpo to dash towards and away from the other. To those watching it looked like two blurs flickering in and out of sight like the wind itself was being wounded and slashed.

"His speed with shunpo is very impressive given how little time he's had to learn it" Tessai remarked as he moved toward Urahara, both men watching the spar unfold between the white and purple haired couple.

"True" Kisuke agreed "Yoruichi may not be going any close to her true speed but the fact that Nero is capable to getting away from her when he'd never used shunpo before two weeks ago speaks on how fast his skills are improving".

Soon Yoruichi came to a stop making Nero do the same "What's wrong" he cocked a brow "Bored already".

The golden eyed woman lazily ran a hand through her hair and added in a mundane tone "What can I say, all this running around is now fun. Why don't we make things a little more interesting". She got into her fighting stance, raising her fists "How about a little game of cat and mouse. Take a guess at which animal you're going to be Nero" her expression morphed into that of a predator ready to pounce on its prey.

The two darted forward and met the other head on. Nero aimed a punch at the woman but she jumped over his fist and wrapped her thighs around his neck, she balanced her arms on the ground and spun her legs in a 360 degree circle before letting go of Nero as he was flung to the side from the power of her swing.

The demon slayer managed to cushion his landing by gambolling out of it 'Any other situation and that's a move a man would be glad to have used on him'. He shunpo'd into the air hoping to catch the drop on Yoruichi but she appeared in a flash just above him coming at him fast. The violet haired woman aimed a kick at his chest with her left leg but Nero was able to use his Devil Bringer to block her attack. Using his free hand he grabbed hold of her ankle, she tried to free herself by using her free right leg to attack but Nero was ready for that too and swung upside down to use his own legs to wrap around her other ankle. Nero used his free hand to form a cero, but his attack was blocked when Yoruichi used a kido barrier to block the attack. The resulting blast caused them both to be pushed away from the other.

'That move' Yoruichi twirled in the air and landed in a kneeling position to break the impact of her landing 'That was Takigoi, an advanced Hakuda technique, something only those in the top tier of the Onmitsukido can do. And he even added to it with his cero to try and throw me off guard. Ha, he really is something'.

The two continued to fight over the course of several minutes clashing again and again. Each time one of them seemed to get the upper hand the other pulled the rag out from under them time and time again. Both Nero and Yoruichi narrowly avoided an attack from the other and got some distance between themselves ready for their next attack when their fun was brought to an end.

"Ahem!" The sound of clapping interrupted the spar "Okay. Okay. I think we've seen enough for now". Kisuke called over to them both. "Well Nero what can I say. Your skills have certainly improved far more than I expected in such a short time".

Both Nero and Yoruichi began making their way to the centre of the training room where Kisuke and Tessai stood, their duel now over.

"What can I say" Nero stretched his arms over his head to ease his muscles after the battle "I had a good teacher".

Yoruichi straightened her back and got all smug "Well what can I say. I'm just that good".

"Sorry, I was talking about Tessai" Nero mocked to which Yoruichi gave him a shove.

Said older gentleman merely nodded "I thank you Nero" Tessai said despite knowing his compliment was meant as a jab at the noble woman. "Its been many many years since I have been able to help another learn Kido. It reminds me of the old days back in the Kido Corps. And as Kisuke says you have gotten the hang of many spells in less than a fraction of the time it would take a normal soul reaper".

The three exiled shinigami spoke some more to Nero on his skills with the shinigami arts as well as where he could improve. "Your Kido is your weakest area at the moment. You can only use low level spells and even then your spells are somewhat unstable. The only reason they have any effect at all is simply due to the raw power they draw from inside you" Kisuke relayed the info to the hunter. "But that's to be expected for someone who's only just started to learn it so don't worry. Besides I'm sure Yoruichi wont mind helping you out, after all it will mean the two of you will get some more alone time which I'm sure neither of you will mind am I right" he wiggled his eye brows towards the devil hunter and former head of the Shihoin Clan.

Both Nero and Yoruichi shared a look before turning away refusing to give the scientist the satisfaction he wanted. They still had yet to speak of that event in Sendai. But there was no way Kisuke could have known about that. He was just trying to get a rise out of them like always. Right.

The sound of a loud whistle caught everyone's attention. Up at the top of the roof of the training room the hatch to the shop had been opened, Jinta was looking down at the four of them as he shouted. "Hey boss! He's here!".

Kisuke shouted back "Alright. Let him inside will you Jinta". The young red head nodded and left the hatch. "Well then I suppose its high time we called this the end of training for today. We have a guest to see after all".

"A guest?" Nero rose his brow. "Alright then. I'll head back home. I've got a few days off from work now anyway so I'll come back tomorrow to train some more".

"Oh no please there's no need to leave Nero" Urahara stopped him. "In fact I was hoping you'd join us all for dinner. I made sure there was enough food for everyone and I believe our guest would quite like to meet you".

Nero looked at Kisuke and shrugged "Alright. Sure".

"Excellent" Kisuke joyfully announced "Well then come on everyone. Ururu should have the food done any time now".

Nero, Urahara, Yoruichi and Tessai all headed back up into the shop. They then headed into the front room of the store. There standing amongst the aisle of goods with an uncomfortable look on his face as Jinta gave him the dead eye was someone whom Nero recognised from his time in the Soul Society with his trademark red pineapple spiked hair and tribal tatoo's.

"Well hello there Renji. Glad to see you made it here okay" Kisuke greeted the man.

Renji bowed respectfully "Sir Kisuke Urahara sir. I am here as was instructed by Captain Kuchiki sir. I am Lieutenant Renji Abarai sir. A pleasure to meet you … sir". To say Renji wasn't good at situations like these was an understatement as evidence by the stiffness of his posture.

Jinta snorted "He already knows your name idiot. He just called you by it. And don't think you're gonna get a free ride around here. We all have to do our part. So no mooching off us. Got it".

"Now now Jinta play nice" Kisuke shook his index finger at the boy. "Well I think introductions are in order. Renji meet my good friend Tessai Tsukabishi" Tessai welcomed the red headed soul reaper. "This little troublemaker is Jinta, Ururu's in the back at the moment. And of course you already know Yoruichi and Nero".

They all said their hello's before Tessai took Renji into the back where he would be staying and where he could remove and store his gigai when not in use. Leaving Nero, Yoruichi and Urahara alone.

"Well" Yoruichi began tugging on her tight orange sweatshirt "Now that all this training is done for today I think I'll go change out of these clothes and go back to being a cat for today. Its so much more freeing". She made her way and walked out the room.

As Yoruichi left Nero's eyes couldn't help but gloss over the woman's impossible perfect backside. 'If I ever did mange to get back home there are something's I really would miss to never see again'.

Urahara nudged Nero and spoke with a sarcastic overlay "What you looking at huh"? He held up his fan to cover his smirk.

Nero chose not to fall for the man's poke and instead opted for a simple "Shut up".

An hour later they all sat round the table in the living room for their meal. Though Yoruichi herself sat on the table now in her feline form. Ururu and Tessai had made the food for everyone which judging from just the smell alone was going to be a treat.

"Cant wait to dig in" Kisuke eagerly awaited the food.

"Just so you know I've made yours with more vegetables this time Kisuke" Tessai began to dish out the meal to everyone. "I had begun to notice your diet becoming rather unhealthy as of late".

"Whaaaa" the shaggy blonde man drooped as if someone had just smacked him in the face.

Nero decided to rub salt in the wound even further "He's right you know. Jamie Oliver would be ashamed if he saw what you eat".

Yoruichi found that rather ironic coming from him "Says mister 'I eat pizza nearly every day of the week'".

"Hey. I only eat pizza on days that end in a 'Y'" the blue eyed teen quipped causing the black feline to shake her head. "Besides being part demon has its perks. Namely the whole super high metabolism thing. Almost impossible to get fat".

Urahara turned to the shinigami to speak "So Renji. How was your first day in the Human World. Any problems".

The spiky red head gulped down some rice having kept mostly to himself while the rest of them bantered to one another. "Aside from having some trouble with my gigai it was pretty mundane. But the way Humans act is weird. You know they don't even carry swords around with them, crazy huh".

"Yeah you could say not carrying weapons in public is kind of a trait Humans have" Kisuke remarked sarcastically, not that Renji could tell.

Nero chipped in "Clearly you've never been to the US. Maybe you should move to Florida. Guy walking around with a katana would just be a normal Tuesday there".

"I heard that there was some incident involving a Hollow at the local highschool in town. Which just so happened to correspond with a spike in reiatsu from both yourself and Ichigo". Urahara lowered his gaze at Renji. "You wouldn't happen to know what that was about would you?" he asked rhetorically in a suggestive manner.

"Err … well …" Renji's eyes flicked back and forth as sweat poured from him.

"Come now Kisuke" the black cat decided it was time to give the red head a break from Urahara's teasing. "Must you insist on tormenting our guest so". Kisuke merely grinned back "So anyway. How are things back in the Gotei 13 Renji. I hope Byakuya and the others are fine by now".

The Lieutenant took another bite of food and nodded as he swallowed "There fine. Thanks to Captain Unohana and the rest of the 4th Division everyone's injuries have healed now. And most of the damage has been repaired". Renji then took note of how Yoruichi had referred to his captain by his first name "Say, how is it you and Captain Kuchiki now each other anyway" he'd already heard rumours about them after the whole execution event but nothing concrete.

The cat titled her head to the side "He never told you?" Yoruichi wasn't surprised 'Just like Byakuya, to keep himself to himself'. "Well lets just say back in the day Byakuya was a rather hopless student when it came to shunpo. But he's come a long way since then".

"Huh" Renji widened his eyes. "Wait. Do you mean you helped train the Captain?". Renji knew Yoruichi Shihoin had once been a Captain herself before even his own and she was said to be one of if not the best user of Hoho of all time, and that Captain Soi Fon had been her former protege. But he never expected her to have been one of Byakuya's teachers. The thought made him imagine just how odd those lessons must have been. An upbeat energetic teacher with her hardened and stoic student. 'No wonder the Captain doesn't talk about it. The thing's she must have done to get under his skin'.

"But of course. My the stories I could tell you about him" Yoruichi chuckled to herself. "Though I suppose I shouldn't. Byakuya's never been one to be able to laugh at himself. But maybe if I had a few more drinks in me another time my lips just might slip no matter how hard I tried not too" she remarked mischievously.

"I'm sure Nero could tell you a thing or two about Yoruichi's special way of teaching. Am I right" Urahara flashed said devil hybrid a not so subtle look.

"Training?" Renji scrunched his brows.

"Yes. Nero here for the past two weeks has been under going training to use his reiryoku" the hat and clogs man explained. "Yoruichi has been teaching him. Myself and Tessai have also helped out as well. In fact not long before you arrived here we were all in the middle of a test to see his skills in action".

"I thought I could sense some odd reiatsu from underneath the floor when I came here". Renji looked over to Nero "That was you?" the devil hunter nodded nonchalantly. 'The power I felt from him earlier then was different to the one I felt from him back in Soul Society. Must be because his spiritual power and pressure has begun to mix with his demonic one. I wonder just what this guy is capable of'.

Renji had heard like everyone just who and what Nero truly was. But unlike everyone else in the Gotei 13 he'd actually spent time with him back during his training to achieve Bankai. He hadn't spoke to him as much as he had Ichigo or even Yoruichi for that matter but he'd he had gotten to know him. And from what he could tell he was a decent guy, if not for his antisocial tendencies and his laissez faire attitude. After all he had helped rescue Rukia and put himself between Aizen and both Kuchiki siblings on that day. Who knows what may have happened if not for him.

Renji began to chow down the food as if it were his first and last meal. Shovelling copious amounts of rice, fish and vegetables down his gullet. The two children at the table watched on as the read heads appetite remained. Both Jinta and even sweet shy Ururu, whom had remained largely silent since taking her seat, began to sarcastically mock Renji offering him more food as a front when in actuality they were teasing him for his mooching. Urahara too being the jokester that he is also got involved and shockingly even Tessai. This became too much for Renji who then made his leave from the table and left the room. Jinta fell to the floor laughing at making a high ranking shinigami as red faced as his hair.

"That guys pitiful" Yoruichi shook her head feeling bad for the man who she had helped train get his bankai. "By the way I've been meaning to ask you Kisuke".

The shaggy blonde shop keeper looked toward the kitty "Yeah what is it?".

"I know its been a while since I've been back in this town but I sense something unnatural. Do you have any idea what's going on?" Yoruichi asked.

"There's been a little disturbance in spirit particles. But other than that I'm not exactly to sure myself" Kisuke waved his fan around though Yoruichi still seemed determined not to let the matter go.

"Disturbance in the spirit what now?" Nero interjected with intrest "What are you guys talking about?".

Kisuke faced the teen and answered "There's recently been an odd sensation coming from somewhere in this town".

"What like a disturbance in the force. So there's Sith here now" Nero jested.

Kisuke hummed and looked up to the ceiling in thought "Its hard to explain. While you can sense reiatsu now your skill isn't as refined as most shinigami. You can pick up on the big things but little oddities like this still escape you. For now anyway, with a little more training we'll fix that". Kisuke took a drink of sake "But for a while now there's been something happening with the spiritual feelings in the town. Something new that wasn't there before".

"Should we be concerned by this" the snow haired devil asked.

"Well in my experience its best to be over prepared than under. Aizen was kind enough to teach me that much at least" Kisuke let out an unamused chuckle.

"So I take it you have something planned then" Yoruichi smiled back as best a cat could smile.

Kisuke held up his fan to his mouth "You know me so well Yoruichi". The downcast shadow off his hat covered his eyes "Lets just say I already have something in the works. But before I do that I have a little something planned for Ichigo and the others. Speaking of. Are they nearly ready Tessai".

Tessai nodded aware of what his friend was referring too "Indeed. They were completed before we even began Nero's training this afternoon".

"Excellent" Kisuke smiled "Because I think I'll need them this very night".

Nero gave the scientist a look "You wanna fill us in on what you're on about".

Kisuke chuckled and batted his fan around "Oh Nero. I thought you knew me better than that by now".

After the rest of them finished their dinner Urahara went over to Nero who was in the process of leaving "Nero before you go I wanted to have a word with you".

"What is it" the demon slayer asked as he put on his coat.

"You said you had the next few days of work right" Nero nodded. "Good. Because I need you and Yoruichi to go to the Soul Society".

"Wait what" Nero was taken aback "Why?".

"Just as Yoruichi said there's something going on in Karakura and the Soul Society has taken notice. Renji wasn't sent here without reason after all". That's what Kisuke assumed the red head had been sent here for anyway and he was usually correct in his assumptions. "I need Yoruichi to speak with Ukitake about this for me. And wanted you to go too. It will be good for you after all. Think of it like an extra part of your training. Besides its not like you've got anything better to do right".

'Got a feeling he has some other agenda for sending me. Well whatever. Like he say's I've got nothing else going on at the moment'. Nero let out a breathe but knew no matter what he said Kisuke would not relent so chose the easy answer "Fine".

"Great" the blonde beamed. "Come back here first thing tomorrow and I'll send you both on your way".

"Sure thing" with that Nero bid farewell to the others and left the front door of the shop when he heard Kisuke shout out to him from the door.

"I almost forgot. You might sense something odd tonight but you don't have to worry about it. Just leave it be alright. Okay thanks". The former captain waved goodbye to his friend 'Good. Now with Nero out the way it will mean Ichigo and his friends wont be able to ask him for help when Ririn and the others play their little game and will instead have to rely on their own power, wits and teamwork. Sometimes I impress even myself'.

"Didn't think I'd be coming back to this place so soon".

"Well at least this time we don't have to worry about being captured or killed on sight. Its the little details you like that you need to enjoy".

Nero turned to face Yoruichi and jeered back "If that's what you call little I'd hate to see what you consider a big problem". His Devil Bringer was free from its coverings as he saw no reason to hide it while in the Seireitei. He also had Red Queen on his back just in case. 'Better safe than sorry'.

Nero had done as Urahara had asked and arrived at the shop in the morning where once more both Nero and Yoruichi were sent through the senkaimon to the Soul Society. This time however given they had permission from the Gotei 13 itself to come instead of arriving in the middle of the Runkongai as they had before they were to arrive at the gate inside the Seireitei. The very same one which they had all left previously.

Though there was still something on Nero's mind. That being that just as Urahara had said he had indeed felt something odd last night. His skills at sensing spiritual activity were still in their infancy but he did make out a slight change. But had chosen not to act on it following Kisuke's words to him the night before. Given the missed call and message he had from Ichigo it likely had something to do with him. 'Whatever. Kisuke wants to play around with Ichigo and the others then let him. Doesn't concern me'. He had asked Urahara on that subject before going through the gate but Urahara had merely chuckled and brushed it off as nothing. 'That guys always full of secrets'.

As the two of them made their way through the Dangai Nero began to wonder. "So why is it we're going to the Soul Society anyway. Just because you and Kisuke can sense an odd feeling. Not exactly much to go on".

"That's what Kisuke and I thought at first" Yoruichi answered as the two continued to sprint inside the world tunnel, at least this time they didn't have to worry about the cleaner. "But last night I did some reconnaissance across the town. After a while I felt an odd rise then drop in reiatsu. I followed it to where I sensed it and I found … well something".

"Something?".

The violet haired woman nodded her hair flowing behind her as they ran "It was a pile of clothing. Several piles of clothing to be precise. If it had to guess I'd say three people's clothes in total. But there were no people around. Just clothes and … dust".

"Dust? What's that got to do with anything" Nero was beginning to have a bad feeling about this.

"The dust wasn't normal dust. From the composition of the dust and the spiritual sensations surrounding the area it led myself and Kisuke to believe that someone or something sucked out those peoples souls and killed them. And the dust and clothing was all that was left over". Yoruichi could begin to see the light of the exit.

Nero huffed annoyed at the news "Seriously. We already dealt with Hollows a few weeks back. Now we've got them again".

"Maybe. Maybe not" Yoruichi noted Nero's look. "Hollows devour the souls of the living differently than the way the suppose victims I found were left. Not only that but I couldn't sense any Hollow reiatsu around. So we may be dealing with something else entirely. That's why Kisuke wanted me to inform the Gotei 13 on the matter. Just as a precaution". The exit was now right in front of them. "Come on. We're there now".

As the exited the Dangai into the Seiretei they were met by one Jushiro Ukitake who gave them both a welcoming smile and wave. "Yoruichi Shihoin and Nero. Its good to finally see you under better circumstances than the last time. Its been too long Yoruichi" he bowed respectfully to the ebony coloured woman.

Yoruichi went up to Ukitake and returned his smile and bow "You too Jushiro. Maybe we should all go out some time to catch up". Ukitake was always one of her favourites and friends from her time as a Captain. It was almost impossible not to like him he was so kind. "But unfortunately it seems like always its those bad times that has brought me here yet again".

Jushiro grew more serious in his expression "Yes. Kisuke Urahara already sent me word of the reason to your visit" the long silver haired Captain let out a sorrowful sigh. "I suppose we should talk then to try and understand just what is going on in the Human World. For all we know it may even involve Aizen and the other traitors". That was very unlikely but still you never know.

"What am I supposed to be doing here then?" Nero asked aloud now wondering what the point of him coming here even was.

Yoruichi turned to face him "Oh don't worry. I've already sorted something out for you while Jushiro and I talk. And I'm sure you'll both love it" she sent him a playfully sweet smile with closed eyes. A sweet look that didn't sit to well with Nero who knew by know that that smile meant she had something wicked planned.

"…".

"…".

"…".

Three people stood in a rather large ornate room. Two men and one woman. One of the men was a large somewhat chubby with a purple puffy collar to give his standard shinigami shihakusho more dazzle. The other man had snow white hair and icy blue eyes. The woman was a tiny petite thing with hard grey eyes and twin black braided hair and had a stern beauty to her. The tension in the room could be cut with a knife it was so heavy. Soi Fon gave Nero a glare that would terrify any normal man, but the devil hunter instead held a bored and somewhat amused look which angered the Captain even more.

All the while drops of sweat poured from Omaeda whose teeth were gritting tight. 'Why. Why did Lady Yoruichi send for me to bring this Nero guy to our division barracks. She must know how much the Captain hates him'. Last night Omaeda had received a command from Captain Ukitake informing him to meet with him at the Senkaimon in the morning. When he did so today he was met with Lady Yoruichi Shihoin and that white haired demon boy Nero. Yoruichi then informed both himself and Nero that she wanted Nero to be taken to Soi Fon and had given Omaeda a letter to give his Captain. Suffice to say it had gone down as well as Omaeda had expected. 'At least the Captain didn't hit me when I brought him here'.

Nero gazed around the room "So this is your little base huh. Seems a lot nicer than the other places I stayed at the last time I was here" even the Head Captains barracks hadn't been as luxurious as this. "What's that" he pointed toward a hexagon like symbol inside of which a series of squares with four stars on each side and in the middle a crescent moon with a sort of tear drop above it. "That your groups emblem or something".

"That is the coat of arms of the Shihoin Clan" Soi Fon spoke to him for the first in a voice that made it clear she'd much rather him not be here. "The insignia of the 2nd Division is the Pasque flower".

"A flower huh" the devil hunter looked over the short woman "Never thought someone like you would be into flowers. Maybe I'll get some as a gift for you next time".

Soi Fon narrowed her eyes at the teen but said nothing, refusing to rise to his level. "…".

"…".

"…".

"Oh come on!" Omaeda shouted desperately on the verge of a breakdown. "Will the two of you please stop with this whole awkward silence! You're making me crazy!".

Both Nero and Soi Fon looked over to the larger male giving him a look. "Are you quite finished Omaeda" Soi Fon asked dryly to which her Lieutenant nodded and edged back in fear. "Good. Then please try to refrain from another outburst like that will you. You are a member of my Division and I refuse to allow your childish actions to smear our reputation in front of others. Even someone like him".

Omaeda sweat dropped 'My childish. You were the one giving him the silent treatment'.

"So is there a reason I'm here or what" Nero asked having enough of being kept in the dark.

The raven haired captain let out a pent up sigh 'Why did you have to send him to me Yoruichi-Sama. Is this some form of punishment or something'. When Omaeda had given her a letter and informed her that it was from none other than Yoruichi she had been thrilled, even more so when she learnt Yoruichi was here in the Seiretei. However upon reading the letter her happiness had been shattered.

In the letter Yoruichi had informed Soi Fon that while she was busy with Ukitake she wanted her to keep Nero company and to take him to watch how shinigami fought and trained as apparently Nero himself was currently undergoing training in the shinigami arts. 'And Lady Yoruichi herself of all people is teaching him. This man is not worthy of her knowledge or time'. But still it was a request from the woman she viewed as both a mother, sister and best friend all in one so no matter how much she didn't want to Soi Fon knew she had to agree.

"Come with me ryoka" Soi Fon commanded as she began to make her way to the door.

"Ryoka?" Nero sneered as he lifted a brow "I was allowed here this time. So how about using my name".

Soi Fon rolled her eyes "Fine. What is your last name?".

Nero shrugged with his hands in his pockets "Your guess is as good as mine" the woman gave him an odd look so he simply replied "Nero. Just Nero".

'He doesn't have a family name. Odd. Maybe its just a thing people do from where he's from'. But the idea of calling him by his first name was still somewhat uncomfortable for her. Soi Fon was all business and a traditionalist. She only called those she was close to by their first name. Which meant pretty much just Yoruichi and some of those in the Shinigami Females Association. But it looked like she had no choice with this one. "Very well … Nero. Follow me" his name felt odd on her tongue but for the sake of her lady she would push through it.

The two of them walked in silence for the most part as they went down the long halls of the 2nd Divisions barracks. "Lady Yoruichi has informed me that you have unlocked your spiritual power and that she is training you in the arts of the shinigami" Soi Fon stated but didn't look towards the teen who trailed a few feet behind her.

"Yeah. For the past two weeks now" Nero could hardly believe it had only been that short of time, it seemed much longer. "Kisuke and Tessai have been helping out a bit as well".

The petite woman scowled when she heard that man's name 'I can never understand how Lady Yoruichi can stand to be in the presence of him. And now she's teaching this brat of all people now as well. Lady Yoruichi truly must have the patience of a goddess. Oh Lady Yoruichi how I wish it was you her with me instead of this clown. With your beautiful eyes, silky hair, strong muscles and-'.

"-You alright" Nero blurted causing the female captain to jolt "Your face has gone red all of a sudden".

"I … I'm fine" Soi Fon squeaked out "Perfectly fine". She cleared her throat with a cough before returning to her normal dry tone "So. Exactly how much has Lady Yoruichi taught you?".

"Quite a bit. My sword skills or zanjustsu as you guys call it was already good thanks to all my training I had before but Yoruichi and Kisuke helped me with my katana skill". He had trained under Dante to learn Dark Slayer Style which specialised with katana's and the Yamato but had never finished learning the full extent of the style so it was only using a katana the two former captains had really needed to help him improve with pickinh up the pieces where Dante left off. "But she did say my ability to use any Kido above the 30's is extremely poor and that I need improving there more than any other field".

The raven haired woman swirled round to face him "Kido in the 30's. You mean you can use Kido spells under that without much problem?".

Nero responded with a casual manner "Pretty much. Though I'm no where near as good with it as Yoruichi, Kisuke and Tessai. Sometimes I even forget which number is which spell and fuck up mid cast" he chuckled thinking of that. 'The look on Yoruichi's face when I screwed up that Shakkaho thinking it was #33 only to have it explode in my face. If not for my healing I'd probably of killed myself there and then'. As he reminisced Nero was unaware of just how shocking his indifferent response had been to the slim woman.

'He can already use some Kido spells under #30' Soi Fon could scarcely believe it. It took shinigami months if not years of training to get to that level yet this boy had managed to do it in a mere fortnight. 'Even if his skill with the spells aren't on Captain level yet the fact that he can even use them is incredible. No wonder Yoruichi-Sama took such interest in him'. She hummed taking in the news "I see. Well in that case taking you to train with the members of my squad will be rather pointless. Lucky for you there is a session involving some Captains and Lieutenants not to far from my barracks. I'll take you there to observe how a shinigami officer battles".

"Ladies first" Nero grinned with charm causing the short woman to frown up at him before making her way to their destination. After some more walking in silence had passed Soi Fon asked something which had been bugging her for a while now.

"By the way. It just so happens I was in the World of the Living recently too. I heard from the Kurosaki boy and Kisuke Urahara that you and Lady Yoruichi happened to be off together" she glared up at him coldly. "Alone". Her voice become much more threatening in tone "Just what exactly were the two of you doing?".

The memory of what had happened on the bridge that night with the lanterns threatened to turn his cheeks red but Nero managed to fight it back. "We heard there was some Hollow in the city. And we took care of it. Nothing more".

"Yes I heard about that. Though I still cant see why it required the both of you to go" Soi Fon still focused her glare at the teen not knowing whether to fully buy his words. "But I suppose my concerns are ill placed. Its not as if Lady Yoruichi would ever lower herself to someone like you".

'Try telling her that' once more Nero almost screwed himself over with a blush at his own thoughts. 'I mean she was about to kiss me back … right?'.

"However I will say this" Soi Fon hardened her steel grey eyes into the snow haired teens azure orbs. "For whatever reason Lady Yoruichi seems to think highly of you. And has even chosen to take you under her wing and teach you the ways of the shinigami. So know this. If you do her any wrong. Be it harm her in any way or stain her honour, reputation or prestige. I will avenge her. I will hunt you down. And I will kill you. Understood".

'This chick's fricking psycho at times'. Nero shook his head and scoffed "Sure whatever. Keep your braids on Liam Neeson".

Soi Fon let out a humph of air not sure what he meant by that remark "Whatever. Come on we're almost there".

The soothing sound of a crackling fire filled the room. A man with white hair and red eyes and a pair of distinct eyebrows sat close by the fire watching as its flames danced while he sipped on his scotch on the rocks.

"So. Has the time finally come. You sent out the call for us all to gather once more. If that's the case then does it mean our peoples dreams will finally be realised" this man was much more mundane in appearance, short brown hair and brown eyes. But one thing that made him stand out was the snake coiled around his neck.

Jin Kariya took another swig of his drink, taking his time to enjoy the warmth of it in his throat much to the annoyance of the other man who waited for his answer. "Why else would I call all of us if not for that. Rest assured Ryo the time of the Bounts is upon us. And we will take our rightful place in this world".

"Good. We have been waiting far too long to get our revenge of those who wronged us" the snake using Bount spat.

The sound of the doorbell rang out, Jin turned to the rooms third occupant. A man with short raven black hair wearing what looked like a shihakusho albeit with some personal customisation done to the outfit "Get that for me will you Ichinose".

The former shinigami nodded diligently "Of course Master Kariya" he said before leaving the room.

Ryo sucked his teeth watching the man leave "I cant understand why you allow that soul reaper of all people to be with us. At best he's a spy and at worst he's a damn weak useless coward who turned on his own people. We'd be better off without him".

Jin had begun to grow tired of Ryo's constant paranoia and jealousy towards Maki. "Ichinose has his uses. He is essential to our plans. So I suggest you grow accustomed to his presence. After all some of us are much more valuable than others" the threat to his words were clear no matter how calmly he spoke them.

The door to the study room opened up once more "Master Kariya" Ichinose stood in the doorway "He's arrived".

"Good" Jin thanked the man. "Please allow him in. and if you don't mind would the two of you allow us to speak in private" Maki agreed with no objection but Ryo was clearly irked and being made to leave but did so regardless. The new man then entered the room and closed the door behind him leaving both himself and Kariya alone "Welcome back Sharp. Its been too long since we last spoke face to face wouldn't you agree".

The man. Hugo Sharp was tall and pale skinned bald man. His eyes were practically black and devoid of almost any colour making it hard to ever get a read on him, though if you focused hard enough you could make out a slight blue colour in one of his eyes and a slight red tint to the other. But the most noticeable thing of him was the scar he had on the left side of his face, even more noticeable than Kariya's own. He was dressed all in black. Black shoes, black trousers and black coat. "I find it hard to believe you of all people would ever find solace in the company of others Kariya much less long for it".

"How right you are Sharp" Jin chuckled with dry amusement. "It seems you were correct after all. This town is indeed home to a Quincy. The last Quincy of all things. The key to our success. I wonder just how you came about this information".

"We all have our skills. Mine just happen to be integral to our plans".

"You never were one for modesty Sharp" Jin relaxed back into his chair while offering Hugo a drink who accepted and took the spar seat close opposite Jin. "But soon none of this will matter. Soon once the gate has been opened we will enter the Soul Society and take our rightful place as kings".

Sharp swilled his whiskey in hand as he took a swig "And we shall know power beyond any we have here". But that was what Hugo wanted Kariya to think. Being a Bount meant keeping yourself and your secrets to yourself. Even from other Bounts. And for all his life Hugo had done just that. But now it seemed that his time as a Bount would soon be over. Soon he would ascend to a higher form of being.

For centuries Kariya had been obsessed with Quincies. Thinking them the key to the Soul Society and the Soul Society the key to power. But Hugo knew better. He and he alone had learnt of a higher level of power than Quincy, than Bounts and even Shinigami. But for centuries the key to that power had been lost to him. 'Once we get to the Soul Society I will find the key. And with it the power of Hell itself will be mine. The power of the Demons or so the prophecy says'.

But demons were being either lost to time or to myth. There existence was up in the air with no proof. But it was said that this was over. That a demon now walked among them in the Human World. And if what the ancient scripts and writings Hugo had found written long long ago in tombs and lost ruins forgotten by time were true then this demons power was the key to his dream. 'This demon will grant me the power I desire. Kariya wishes to be a king. But I will become so much more. Once I complete the ritual I will be above all kings and emperor. I will be a god. The God. And all the worlds shall know my name and power. And kneel before to worship me'.

Here we start at everyone's favourite arc. Just kidding. But in all seriousness I think the Bount arc is alright. It has a good premise but just got dragged out for way to long. My version of the Bount arc will, as you can already tell, have some changes in it.

Now Nero has awakened his spiritual powers and is training in the arts of the shinigami with Yoruichi as his teacher (the luck guy). As mentioned Urahara and Tessai have also helped Nero in training but Yoruichi has been his main teacher. But he is still early in his training and still has a long way to go.

For those wondering Nero does have Dark Slayer Style which Dante taught him but he's not as good with it as Dante and even less so than Vergil.

As for Nero getting a Zanpakuto. As of now I don't plan on giving him one. I mean when you already have a sword that can literally cut through anything every other sword power isn't as impressive. And to get a Zanpakuto (a true one anyway) you need an Asauchi which Nero doesn't have. Or you need to be Ichigo and have your soul be a mix of every type (shinigami, quincy, hollow, fullbring, human), but even then Ichigo needed an Asauchi for his zanpakuto to be fully powered. And I actually have a reason for not giving him one which will play into the story down the line. But who knows its still early days. I never say anything is concrete just in case months from now I change my mind.