Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Loki clung to the staff, staring up at his brother and his father, trying one last time to convince them of his worth.

“I could have done it! For you! For all of us!” Loki yelled.

“No, Loki.” Odin replied and for a moment, Loki felt his heart break for the final time.

He knew, with certainty, that this was the final straw. His father would never truly love or care about him. Loki would never be as good as Thor was, not in Odin’s eyes. His hand started to let go.

“Loki, no!” Thor begged, his voice cracking, even as Loki felt his grip slip away.

He stared at his brother, Thor, the Great and Powerful, the one true son of Odin, one last time before he let go.

“LOKI! NOOOO!” Thor’s scream of his name echoed as he fell.

Loki closed his eyes.

—sSs—

Ichigo shifted his bag over his shoulder as he walked, the heavy rain poured down upon him. What a day to forget his fucking umbrella. Focusing on just putting one foot in front of the other, Ichigo traveled across town, listening to the music coming through his headphones and trying not to let the pouring rain and booming thunder make his already piss poor mood even worse.

As the cold rain ran down the back of his neck, he shivered before he came upon the Visored’s warehouse. With a deep sigh, he pushed open the door and looked around. There wasn’t much left to it, but it was more comfortable than home was right now and that was saying something. After the war, he had never quite forgiven his father for what had happened and it was just easier not to be around him anymore. Plus his sisters were getting older and they needed more room to grow. Or at least that’s the lie he told himself to make himself feel less guilty about not being around.

Ichigo threw his bag into a nearby chair before he headed for the small kitchenette he had set up. It was mostly just some camping equipment he had bought and kept in the warehouse for nights he didn’t go home. As he reached for some ramen for dinner, he heard a loud bang, different from the thunder he had heard before and when he looked up, something fell through the ceiling behind him. Turning around, Ichigo raised an eyebrow when he noticed that whoever had fallen through the ceiling, they had landed on the couch at the very least.

“What the fuck is this now.” Ichigo muttered.

Walking over, he eyed the man with confusion. Like was it him? Or was the guy dressed like a very shiny statue? Ichigo looked up through the new hole in the roof and sighed.

“Fuck.”

—sSs—

Loki slowly came back to consciousness. For a while, he didn’t even open his eyes, not sure he wanted to, but eventually, they fluttered open. He was staring up at a very high gray ceiling. Whatever he was laying on wasn’t that comfortable and didn’t smell that great, making him wiggle his nose in distaste. The sound of scratching made him slowly turn his head and his confusion grew.

There was a young man sitting beside him, scratching away at some paper with a pencil. His eyes were narrowed in concentration as he focused on what he was writing. In all his years, he had never seen someone with such brightly colored hair or such intense eyes. Loki’s mind spun, trying to figure out next steps when the young man spoke.

“Are you going to say anything or just keep staring? Because yes, it’s natural.” The young man said calmly.

“My apologies, I’m afraid I was quite… disorientated after having just woken up.” Loki stated.

The young man glanced at him and then went back to what he was doing.

“I would think so, you’ve been out for a month.” He stated.

“A month!” Loki sat up quickly, only to hiss and flop back down when the room spun.

“Yeah, I really wouldn’t do that. Your wounds have barely healed and while I have been feeding you water and soup, I doubt your body is fully ready to move yet. So, I would take it easy if I were you.” The young man said.

Loki stared at him, his eyes narrowed in confusion and distrust.

“And what reason would you have to help me for a month? You do not know me nor I you.” Loki demanded.

The young man sighed and flipped his book closed before he locked eyes with Loki. Loki could honestly say his eyes were so intense that Loki had a bit of trouble keeping eye contact.

“To be honest with you, you looked like hell had warmed you over and with your getup, I had a feeling if I called for help, you’d be locked up in some mental ward before I could even blink. So.” He shrugged.

Loki raised an eyebrow.

“There are not many who would do that for a complete and total stranger.” Loki said.

“True, but you did introduce yourself to me as “The Great and Powerful Loki, God of Mischief!” (insert the young man wiggling his fingers) when you woke up briefly before you gave me a heart attack by trying to jump over the couch and landing face first on the floor. So on that front, we aren’t quite strangers.” He said.

Loki coughed into his fist with embarrassment, then started to cough for real when he realized how dry his throat was. There was a sigh from the other man and Loki’s head was lifted up as a straw was placed at his lips.

“Drink slowly.” He was told and he did.

The water was slightly cold, but not freezing and went down smoothly. When the glass was done, Loki was laid back down with gentleness he would not have expected. The young man pressed a hand to his forehead and then his neck before nodding.

“Your fever is gone too. That’s good.” He muttered as he stood up.

Loki stared at him, wondering what was going to happen next. The other man didn’t seem to be in a rush, he went over to a small box and started to refill the cup with some kind of container.

“What is your name?” Loki called.

The man turned to him, eyebrow raised.

“Ichigo.” He said before he stood back up and came back over.

He held the straw still and Loki was quick to drink more before he finally pulled back.

“Well Ichigo, you have done the God of Mischief a great service. I thank you.” Loki said.

Ichigo shrugged.

“Don’t mention it. Was just the right thing to do.” Ichigo replied as he sat back down and grabbed his writing book again.

Loki waited for him to say more, but Ichigo just went back to what he was doing. Loki took the time to look around and realized he was in some kind of large room. He was lying on a couch with a pillow and heavy blanket, but besides the chair Ichigo sat in, the small cooking area and the couch, there was nothing else but debris.

“Where… are we?” Loki asked.

“A warehouse on the edge of town.” Ichigo replied.

“Do you… live here?” Loki asked curiously.

“Kind of. My family owns a clinic in town, but I spend most of my time here.” Ichigo replied simply.

Loki’s eyes narrowed in confusion.

“I do not understand why you would rather stay here than your family home.” Loki admitted.

“I was here taking care of you. After you came through the ceiling a month ago, you have been mostly unconscious, suffering from on and off fevers which included vomiting, sweating, hallucinating, and a lot more. I couldn’t bring you to my house because you were a danger to yourself and others.” Ichigo pointed to a large hole in the ceiling that had been poorly boarded up.

“Oh.” Loki muttered.

Well, wasn’t that embarrassing! Loki had to resist the urge to hide his face, but Ichigo didn’t seem upset about it.

“So where are you from?” Ichigo asked.

“Asgard.” Loki replied.

“Bless you.” Ichigo said politely.

“No, that is where I am from. I am from Asgard.” Loki said with a huff.

Ichigo raised an eyebrow.

“Asgard… ok, then. Not sure I know where that is on a map.” Ichigo admitted.

“It is an entirely different world than Midgard. The realm of the Asgardians. Warriors of great power and respect.” Loki replied.

“Righttt. That explains the getup I guess.” Ichigo said, pointing.

Loki sat up and looked over the back of the couch to see his clothes hanging up on a moveable clothing rack. Blinking, he quickly peeked under the blanket and found he was in a shirt and some pants, definitely not clothes he had been wearing previously.

“You changed my clothes.” Loki demanded.

“I also cleaned and bandaged your wounds between washing your hair and ass. Look, it was either leave you to wear bloody clothing that you were going to vomit all over or change you into something easier to deal with. You can get mad about it, but you weren’t in the position to give me permission, ok?” Ichigo replied hotly.

Loki stared at him before he lifted up his shirt and noticed that a few of his wounds had been tended to. His hair smelled freshly washed as well. Loki dropped the blanket and stared at Ichigo for the longest time, trying to figure out what was going on here.

“I’m not some kind of pervert, ok? You were injured and needed help. I helped you. Now that you are healed and awake, you can leave and do whatever it is Gods of Mischief do.” Ichigo explained.

Loki frowned, staring at him, still trying to figure out what was going on here.

“Well?” Ichigo stressed.

Loki huffed and tried to sit up. His arms were shaking as he pushed himself into a sitting position. He was panting when he was done, the corners of his eyes were dark and the whole room was spinning. Loki curled up slightly.

“Easy.” Ichigo said, rubbing his back as he held out a bucket.

Loki wiggled his nose.

“I am not going to be sick. I will be fine.” Loki groaned.

“I doubt that very much, but whatever you say.” Ichigo said.

Loki closed his eyes and focused on breathing deeply until everything stopped feeling so spinny. Slowly, he opened his eyes again and looked at Ichigo.

“I do not think I can get up.” Loki admitted.

“Then lay back down. I am not washing that blanket again.” Ichigo said as he helped Loki lay back down.

Loki slumped back against the pillow and tried to hope his stomach would stop rolling soon. Ichigo stayed close and when Loki didn’t immediately vomit everywhere, he put the bucket down. He sat back in his chair and crossed his arms.

“Is there anyone I can call? A God of, I dunno, healing or something that can come and heal you better than I can?” Ichigo asked.

Loki opened his mouth, only to stop. Who did he have? Not Thor and certainly not Odin. Maybe Frigga would come, but… he sighed and closed his eyes.

“No. I have no one.” Loki admitted softly.

“Oh. Sorry I asked then.” Ichigo actually did sound quite sorry.

Loki looked at him.

“It’s my own fault. I… I have made many mistakes. Maybe one day I will be able to approach them again, but not now.” Loki shook his head.

Ichigo sighed and tilted his head back.

“I mean, it isn’t much, but you are welcome to stay here. No one comes here but me anyway so you won’t be bothered.” Ichigo stated.

“Does your family not care that you are spending so much time here?” Loki asked, eyebrow raised.

Ichigo got up and moved to the small kitchen area.

“Not really. My dad is a doctor, so he’s busy a lot of the time and my sisters are at that point in their lives where they don’t need their big brother anymore.” Ichigo said.

Loki’s eyes narrowed. He sounded sad, but also accepting. Like this was just what happened and there was nothing he could do about it.

“An older brother, hm?” Loki said.

“Eeyup.” Ichigo replied.

They lapsed into silence as Ichigo continued to work and Loki started to squirm to get more comfortable before he huffed. 

“This couch is rather uncomfortable. Were there no better options?” Loki demanded.

Ichigo looked at him blankly.

“I’m not rich. The couch was what I could find. Take it or leave it, Mr. God of Mischief.” Ichigo said boredly.

“Oh, I absolutely will not.” Loki held up his hand and snapped his fingers.

Ichigo blinked and then blinked again before he sighed.

“Somehow this is not the craziest thing I have ever seen.” Ichigo whispered as he rubbed his eyes.

Looking up again, Loki was now laying in a four poster bed with gold, green and black sheets, pillows and comforter. Loki settled back with a sigh.

“Much better.” Loki said, pleased.

Ichigo walked over and eyed it before he just shook his head.

“If you throw up on these, I am not washing them.” Ichigo stated as he held out a cup to Loki.

Loki frowned and took the cup, staring at it.

“And what… is this?” Loki asked.

“Well, I figured since you’re awake, I can switch you from soup to something with more substance. Hence, ramen in a cup.” Ichigo sat in his chair and started to eat his own cup.

Loki watched him eat, baffled by the sight of the two sticks he was holding before looking at the fork Ichigo had given him.

“What are those?” Loki asked.

“Chopsticks.” Ichigo replied before pausing.

“You want to try?” Ichigo asked.

“I have never seen those before. How do they work?” Loki asked.

After a careful demonstration, several failed attempts and one short argument later, Loki did manage to figure them out.

“Ahaha!” Loki said, holding the noodles with shaking hands.

“You did it. Congrats.” Ichigo said with a smirk.

His own noodles had gone cold a while ago, but Ichigo had been curious to see if Loki would manage it or if he would give up eventually. Loki managed to get a few noodles in his mouth before he looked at Ichigo.

“Thank you. For indulging my curiosity.” Loki said and Ichigo nodded.

“No problem.” Ichigo stood up and stretched.

“I need to head home. Just to grab some stuff for school tomorrow, check on my sisters, etc. I’ll be back.” Ichigo grabbed his writing book and shoved it into his bag.

Throwing the bag over his shoulder, he glanced at Loki.

“If you decide to leave, change the couch back, ok?” Ichigo stated.

“I promise you, I will be here when you come back.” Loki replied as he settled back into his pillows.

For a moment, Ichigo looked so sad. As if he truly didn’t believe Loki before he slipped out the door and was gone. Loki waited for a while, watching the door before he turned his attention to the ceiling.

“What nonsense have you gotten yourself into this time, Loki?” Loki muttered.

—sSs—

Ichigo did return some time later. He seemed annoyed about something, slamming the door shut behind him with a scowl. Loki raised an eyebrow.

“Quite a temper you have there.” Loki commented.

Ichigo jumped, startled, staring at him in shock.

“Oh… you’re still here.” Ichigo muttered.

“I did promise.” Loki replied.

Ichigo rubbed the back of his neck before he sighed.

“Yeah, not really used to people keeping those around me.” Ichigo walked over and dropped his bag into the chair. 

“Oh?” Loki asked.

Ichigo shrugged as he started to pull a strange looking item from his bag and started to unroll it. Loki stared at it blankly.

“What is that?” Loki asked.

“A sleeping bag?” Ichigo replied confused.

Loki stared at him blankly.

“I use it to sleep here. Since you took the couch and well, random furniture is not that easy to find.” Ichigo stated as he pulled out a pillow and another blanket.

“That cannot be comfortable.” Loki said, arms crossed.

“It’s fine. I probably won’t sleep much anyway.” Ichigo sighed before he pulled some clothes from the bag next.

“Oh? Do you suffer from insomnia?” Loki asked.

“No. Nightmares.” Ichigo replied.

Ichigo turned and started to pull off his shirt. Loki’s eyes fell to a large scar going from his shoulder to his hip, alarmed.

“You did not tell me you were a warrior.” Loki said.

“Hm?” Ichigo turned and there was a matching scar on his chest.

“My, that must have been quite painful.” Loki muttered.

“Yeah… anyway, you should probably get some sleep.” Ichigo threw on another top and Loki sighed, getting the feeling that Ichigo wasn’t going to answer any of his questions tonight.

Ichigo got settled into his sleeping bag and as he laid there, Loki wondered what he was thinking before he snapped his fingers. Ichigo yelped as he ended up in a matching four poster bed with red, black and white coloring.

“Loki!” Ichigo hissed.

“Good night.” Loki rolled over and smirked as Ichigo grumbled.

“Good night.” Ichigo finally said as Loki slipped into sleep.

—sSs—

The next morning, Loki woke up and Ichigo was gone. The bed was neatly made and there was a note on top.

Off to school. Change the beds back when you wake up. -Ichigo

“Hmph, I listen to no one’s orders.” Loki said boredly.

He eyed the bed before he sighed and snapped his fingers again and the bed returned to a sleeping bag. With a grumble, Loki crawled to the edge of bed and placed his feet on the floor. He was feeling a bit more stable than yesterday. Not nearly as shaky or weak. Putting his weight on his feet, he got up. He stumbled a bit, yes, but he was able to stand and not immediately collapse, so Loki called it a win.

“Now, what are my next steps?” Loki muttered.

Looking at his clothes again, he noted something curious. Walking over, he pulled a sleeve to his eyeline and saw where there had been a tear was now fixed. In fact, all of the tears and rips had been fixed. Loki ran his fingers over the stitches and took note that they were nice and even. Clearly a steady hand from someone who knew what they were doing. It matched the ones across his skin.

“Interesting.” Loki muttered.

Loki released the sleeve and sighed deeply. With a wave of his hand, the clothes he was wearing changed to his armor. It felt comfortable, like a warm, familiar blanket. He called upon his horned helmet and daggers. Feeling a bit more like himself, Loki felt like he was ready to leave this place. Maybe find a nice pocket dimension to hide in for a little while, when the door opened. Ichigo and Loki locked eyes. 

“Oh, you’re up.” Ichigo stated.

He closed the door and stared at Loki, a strange expression on his face.

“Ah, yes. I figured it was time for me to get out of bed. You know, stretch my legs and all that.” Loki stated.

Why did he feel nervous about this? It’s not like he had done anything wrong. Yet, something about the way Ichigo was staring at him, so if he was waiting for something made Loki nervous.

“Right. Anyway, I brought some more cups of ramen if you want to take them with you. You just need hot water and you should be all set.” Ichigo said as he pulled a cup out of his bag and held it out to Loki.

“With me?” Loki asked.

Ichigo eyed him.

“Well, you’re clearly leaving. So yeah.” Ichigo replied.

“And who said that?” Loki asked.

“Your outfit mostly.” Ichigo stated with annoyance before he sighed and rubbed his eyes.

“Look, I am not shocked you want to leave, ok? I would want to leave too. So, please don’t treat me like a fool.” Ichigo demanded.

Loki looked at him and then waved his hand. His clothes changed back to the sleeping outfit Ichigo had dressed him in and his helmet was gone.

“Well, I do not like it when people think they know what I am planning on doing next. So for that, I am going to stay even longer.” Loki plopped himself right on the edge of the bed with a smirk.

Ichigo stared at him before letting out a chuckle.

“Just have to do things your way, huh?” Ichigo asked with a smile.

“Of course. No one orders around the God of Mischief.” Loki replied.

“Yeah, guess not.” Ichigo muttered.

Ichigo walked over to the small kitchen area and started to unload whatever he had in his bag. Loki got the impression Ichigo wasn’t really sure what to do now that he was awake.

“So what do they teach at this school you go to?” Loki asked.

Ichigo turned to him, eyebrow raised.

“What? You want to grab your GED or something?” Ichigo asked as he dropped his now empty bag on the floor.

“My GED?” Loki asked, confused.

“Nevermind. It’s just a basic education. You know, math, writing, those kinds of things. It’s preparing us for university. I graduate next year.” Ichigo stated.

“I see. And when do you learn swordsmanship?” Loki asked.

“We don’t. Unless you are in a kendo club.” Ichigo replied.

Loki blinked. He remembered the scar from the day before.

“Alright, what about sorcery? Marksmanship?” Loki asked.

“Yeahhhh we don’t learn that in school. In fact most people don’t believe in magic.” Ichigo stated, arms crossed.

“I’m confused. When do you learn to protect yourself?” Loki asked.

“We don’t. Why are you asking?” Ichigo asked.

Loki stared at him.

“You are very skilled. You have clear medical training and your body shows signs of physical training. So I am just curious.” Loki replied.

“Uh huh. Don’t worry about it, alright? I learned all my lessons the hard way.” Ichigo turned his attention back to the kitchen and Loki huffed.

“I see. I apologize, I did not mean to be rude.” Loki said.

“You’re not being rude.” Ichigo sighed and bowed his head.

“Sorry, I just… like I said I learned my lessons the hard way. Just hope no one else had to learn them the same way I did.” Ichigo said.

“Sometimes, the best lessons are learned the hard way.” Loki stated.

“And sometimes, you don’t need to learn the lesson at all because you shouldn’t be in the situation to need those lessons to begin with!” Ichigo said, sounding furious.

Loki eyed him as his shoulders tensed up before they dropped.

“How are you feeling?” Ichigo asked when he finally turned to look at Loki.

“Certainly stronger than yesterday, but still weak. I do not see myself leaving any time soon.” Loki explained.

“Well, as soon as you are strong enough, you are more than welcome to leave. I am sure you have better things to do than be here.” Ichigo started to heat up some water.

“Oh, do not worry. When I am ready, I will be on my way.” Loki replied.

Ichigo nodded as he moved to grab some cups and start to get some food ready. Loki took the cup and was pleased that he was able to use the chopsticks easier than yesterday. As they ate, they sat in silence. Loki found himself watching Ichigo, curiously.

“Just ask it.” Ichigo said without looking up.

“Hm?” Loki asked.

“Whatever question you are trying to stare into my soul with. Just ask it. I hate when people have a question and they don’t just ask it.” Ichigo replied, looking up at him.

“My apologies. I suppose my question comes down to this; who did this to you?” Loki asked.

The question he was asking was multilayered. Between Ichigo’s aggression towards certain questions and the odd aura that Ichigo had, Loki was trying to get a better understanding of who Ichigo is or, based on his aura, what he was. It was familiar in a way, but Loki couldn’t quite put his finger on it. He had met a lot of creatures in his long life, so he would need some kind of hint to narrow it down. Ichigo shrugged.

“That’s a really broad question. Not sure I can answer it with one sentence.” Ichigo stated.

Clever man. Loki was amused. Ichigo was playing the game rather well for someone so young. Not willing to give up anything that would give the answers too easily.

“Then take all the sentences you need.” Loki replied.

“We would be here all night if I started that and I would rather not sit here, crying to a stranger like some idiot.” Ichigo said.

“Ah, but you said it yourself, we are not strangers anymore. Think of me as a new friend.” Loki pointed out.

“Yeah, no. I’m good.” Ichigo said.

“Very well, but the door remains open if you ever wish to take advantage in the future.” Loki yawned as he said that and Ichigo just nodded.

“Yeah, yeah, come on. I’ll show you where you can freshen up before bed.” Ichigo held out his arm and Loki raised an eyebrow.

“I am able to walk, thank you.” Loki stood up, only to find himself leaning to the side.

“Hey!” Ichigo yelped and grabbed him to keep him from falling.

“Oh dear.” Loki muttered, feeling a bit dizzy.

“‘Oh dear’ my ass! Jesus, give me a heart attack, why don’t you!” Ichigo huffed as he wrapped an arm around Loki’s waist and helped him to his feet.

Carefully, they walked across the room until a small side room that had probably once been a janitor’s closet or something. There, Ichigo sat Loki down in a chair and started a small shower that held some shampoo, conditioner and even some body wash. He filled a bucket that had a sponge and face cloth in it.

“I think I am capable of cleaning myself, thank you.” Loki held out his hand and Ichigo nodded.

“Alright, I will be right outside.” Ichigo left him alone, closing the door enough to have a crack in it.

Loki sighed and waved his hand tiredly. The clothing he wore disappeared and the cloth started to run over him. He sat back in the chair, almost falling asleep before a knock came to the door.

“You ok in there?” Ichigo’s voice called.

“Yes, yes, apologies.” Feeling cleaner, Loki dried himself and then clothed himself in a pair of emerald green pajamas.

Ichigo stepped inside and eyed the new clothes before sighing.

“I don’t know if I should ask about these clothes. I think I am better off not knowing.” Ichigo muttered as he helped Loki to his feet.

“Probably.” Loki agreed.

With careful steps, they got Loki back to bed, who laid down with a sigh and closed his eyes.

“This weakness is beneath me.” Loki grumbled.

“Yeah, yeah.” Ichigo replied as he helped Loki under the covers.

“I am the God of Mischief. I should be stronger than this.” Loki said between yawns.

“You are a very scary and powerful god.” Ichigo nodded as he tucked the comforter under Loki’s chin.

“I am… as strong… as Thor.” Loki mumbled as his eyes fluttered shut.

Ichigo stood over him, watching as Loki fell asleep before he fell back into his chair and stared at the ceiling.

Chapter Text

Loki woke up some time later, jackknifing up in bed as a nightmare faded from his memory. A nightmare of dark, cold space, being swallowed whole, left to float in endless abyss…

A loud snort made him look over to see Ichigo asleep in the chair, his head bowed. Loki stared at him before he sighed. A second later, the sleeping bag was a bed once more and Ichigo was tucked under the covers. Ichigo let out a soft mutter and snuggled into his pillow.

Loki leaned back against his pillows and looked up, eying the hole where Ichigo had said he had fallen through when his eyes locked on to something hiding in the corner of a rafter. Two gold eyes were watching him and his eyes narrowed.

“A spy, hm? Hey kitty, kitty.” Loki crocked his finger at the cat, calling it to him.

Instead, the cat turned and disappeared. Loki hummed thoughtfully.

—sSs—

A loud blaring noise woke Loki up the next morning. Blurrily, he opened his eyes to watch as Ichigo scrambled to get out of bed, grabbed his stuff, scribbled Loki a note and then bolted out the door. Loki yawned and rolled over, deciding he would deal with the note later.

Hours later, Loki woke up and yawned. Rolling over in the bed, he eyed the note before it floated over to him. Squinting slightly, Loki read.

Late for school. Take it easy today. -Ichigo

“Hm, what a caring soul.” Loki said as he stretched.

Loki sat up and rubbed his eyes. Dropping his hand into his lap, he eyed the ceiling again, but there were no eyes in the rafters. So he was alone. Loki hummed and tapped his chin. He still didn’t feel 100%, but slightly stronger than yesterday. It was clear his body was healing, but slowly, which admittedly was annoying.

“If only I was an Asgardian, I would be healed by now.” Loki scowled.

Loki’s origins still hurt when he thought about it too much. To know he had just been some kind of trophy for Odin and his ego had hurt. That, no matter what he had done, no matter how good he had been, Odin would have never seen him as a son like he saw Thor hurt.

“So many years wasted.” He muttered with a sneer before he sighed.

He thought about Thor, his big oaf of a brother, how Thor had always been the good and honorable warrior Odin had wanted and shook his head.

“One day, Brother, you will fall from his eye like I did.” Loki muttered.

Loki’s senses suddenly went wild and he sat up in his bed as the door opened. Ichigo walked in, muttering something as he tried to close the door, only for a large hand to keep it from closing, curling around the edge of the door.

“Ugh, stupid fucking door! Keeps getting stuck!” Ichigo snapped as he tried to shove the door closed with his shoulder, only for a white face to appear in the crack.

“Hungry.” The white face hissed, staring at Ichigo, who continued in vain to close the door and didn’t seem to notice.

“Eat!” the mouth opened and it leaned towards Ichigo when it was hit in the face by a fireball.

“Oh, I think not.” Loki said coldly.

Ichigo yelped and jumped back, startled by the sudden fire before he turned to Loki. The creature howled as the fire consumed it and destroyed it.

“Loki! The hell was that for! I’m just trying to close the door!” Ichigo snapped.

“Oh yes, and something was blocking the way, so I simply cleared it for you. Try now.” Loki said.

Ichigo raised an eyebrow, but the door snapped shut with no problem.

“Oh. Thanks, I guess. Just don’t scare me like that again. Thought I had pissed you off or something to deserve having a fireball thrown at me.” Ichigo grumbled as he walked over to the kitchen area.

“Of course, my apologies.” Loki eyed him in confusion before glancing at the door again.

“Are monsters common in this area?” Loki asked.

Ichigo stopped, but didn’t look at him.

“Wouldn’t know.” Ichigo replied evenly.

“Hm, I see.” Loki said.

“Why are you asking?” Ichigo asked.

“Just curious.” Loki lied as Ichigo came back with more cups of ramen.

Loki eyed it. The novelty had worn off if he was going to be honest. He longed for the food in the feasting hall. He wanted meat. He never knew he could long for food so much. Maybe thinking about Thor had brought this out in him.

“Everything ok?” Ichigo asked.

“Hm? Ah yes, I am fine.” Loki took the cup and started to eat, wishing it was something more filling.

“Sorry.” Ichigo muttered, embarrassed.

“Hm?” Loki said, mouthful.

“I know you are probably used to better, but this is all I can afford. I’ll try to bring something better tomorrow.” Ichigo rubbed the back of his neck.

Loki stared at him, uncomfortable.

“Loki?” Ichigo called, concerned.

“I am… uncertain of how much I like that you are able to read me. Unless you are a mind reader and did not tell me.” Loki said, eyes narrowed.

Ichigo scuffed and shook his head with a small smile.

“Sorry. Not a mind reader. You just… remind me of someone I used to know. He didn’t like to share things that were bothering him, so I got really good at just reading his body language. You did the same thing he used to when he didn’t want to eat something, the same kind of slightly pinched expression he used to make.” Ichigo stated.

“I see.” Loki said softly.

“Like I said, I will try to bring something better tomorrow. Maybe some of my sister’s cooking.” Ichigo stated.

“I would appreciate it.” Loki nodded.

“I would introduce you to them, but honestly that would mean introducing you to my Dad and…” Ichigo made a face.

“Not a fan of your father?” Loki said with a smirk.

“He and I don’t get along.” Ichigo said as he turned to his ramen.

“Ah, I understand that feeling well.” Loki replied.

“You have problems with your dad too?” Ichigo asked, curiously.

“I could never compare to my perfect older brother. Then I learned I was not even his child. So, needless to say, but I understand his distance now.” Loki admitted.

Ichigo stared at him before looking away.

“My dad hates me because I killed my mom.” Ichigo said softly.

Loki blinked, startled. He stared at Ichigo before his eyes narrowed.

“I have a feeling there is more to that story.” Loki stated.

“I made a mistake. A stupid, awful mistake and she paid the price for it. Can’t say I blame him for hating me.” Ichigo sighed.

Loki leaned back against his pillows and raised an eyebrow.

“I am afraid I do not follow. What mistake could have been so horrid that you caused her death?” Loki asked.

He felt like there was more to this story, more than Ichigo was saying. He had been the cause of many peoples’ unfortunate demise over his lifetime. Surely, someone a quarter of his age couldn’t have had the same problems.

“I thought I was going to help someone. It turned out to be a trap. Mom saved my life at the cost of her own. Dad never forgave me.” Ichigo said aggressively.

“And am I to assume you were a child?” Loki pressed.

“Yes. I was ten, but I should have known better!” Ichigo said hotly.

“And how would you know? If it was a trap, then someone, probably an adult, put it together. So tell me again, how is it your fault?” Loki asked.

Ichigo got up and turned away. He started to pace back and forth.

“You don’t get it.” Ichigo said, shaking his head.

“I do not. You must explain it to me.” Loki pushed.

Ichigo looked at him and then looked away.

“As a kid… I could see ghosts.” Ichigo admitted.

Loki raised an eyebrow.

“But I couldn’t tell them apart from living people. I thought I saw someone in trouble, but they weren’t. And Mom…” Ichigo shook his head.

“Could not see them, I am guessing.” Loki said.

“Yes.” Ichigo muttered.

“Can your father see them?” Loki asked.

“He couldn’t at the time.” Ichigo explained.

Loki made a note of the “at the time” and stored it away for later.

“So, in a sense, you were a young child who could see things other people, including your parents, could not. Therefore, there was no one to teach you the difference between a ghost and a living person. Do I have that correct?” Loki asked.

“Yes…?” Ichigo said, confused.

“Forgive me, but it seems like you were left alone with an ability you had no control over and no one to help you figure it out. Therefore, how could you have ever learned what the difference was when both parties look the same to a small child?” Loki asked.

“Loki, that’s not the point! The point is my mom died because of me!” Ichigo insisted.

“The point I am trying to make is that you were a child and your mother loved you enough to sacrifice her life for your’s. Your father, it seems, has the intelligence of a squirrel and decided to blame a child for the actions of an adult woman.” Loki explained.

Ichigo stared at him, eyes wide and Loki was concerned to see tears welling up.

“How can you say that? Y-You don’t know me! I could be lying!” Ichigo yelled hotly.

Loki threw back his head and laughed. He laughed long and hard before he quieted down, wiping the tears from his eyes as he chuckled.

“Ichigo, I am the Master of Lying. I am the King of Liars. I am not called the “Silvertongue” for nothing. If you were lying to me, I would have smelt it from a mile away and you have been nothing, but honest since I woke up. I may not know you, but I can see that you are a strong-willed young man who was hurt by trials beyond your control.” Loki stated.

“Still…” Ichigo trailed off.

“I could be wrong, yes. I have been wrong a lot lately. But this? I am quite certain that your mother would be quite displeased to hear your father taking that out on you.” Loki stated.

“Well she can’t do that, Loki, Because SHE’S DEAD!” Ichigo yelled.

Loki sat there, watching as Ichigo seemed to go through the five stages of grief right before his eyes. Eventually, Ichigo sat down in his chair and just buried his face in his hands to cry. Loki sighed deeply and reached out, but his hand hovered over Ichigo’s shoulder. Would Ichigo want his comfort? Loki wasn’t sure, but what else was he supposed to do? Eventually, he placed his hand on Ichigo’s shoulder and felt a well of sorrow so deep that Loki almost gasped.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t yell at you.” Ichigo muttered, sitting up as he wiped his eyes.

“You are fine. You are not the first, nor the last. I promise you.” Loki said.

“Doesn’t make it right. I’m sorry.” Ichigo said.

Loki stared at him, startled before he nodded.

“Thank you. There are very few who would apologize to me of all people.” Loki replied as he pulled his hand away.

“That’s fucked up. You deserve better.” Ichigo muttered.

Loki chuckled and shook his head.

“You do not know me.” Loki parroted his words back to him and Ichigo huffed.

“Well, I think you deserve better and that’s the only opinion I care about.” Ichigo sat back in his chair.

They lapsed into silence before eventually, Ichigo cleaned up the cold ramen and helped Loki into bed. As they settled down, Ichigo stared at Loki for a long time before Ichigo sighed.

“Mom was beautiful. Inside and out.” Ichigo said.

“Oh?” Loki asked.

“Yeah. She was the center of my family’s world. I loved her more than anything.” Ichigo muttered.

Loki nodded, looking at his lap.

“What about your mom?” Ichigo asked.

Loki blinked, staring at him.

“My mother… ah she is a very powerful woman. I suppose you have to be in order to be married to Odin.” Loki replied.

Ichigo’s brow furled.

“Why’s that?” Ichigo asked.

“Odin can be… very stubborn.” Loki sighed.

“Oh yeah, I can understand that a lot.” Ichigo nodded.

“Frigga is a woman of great power and influence. I learned so much under her tutelage.” Loki held out his hand.

A flower bulb appeared in his hand before it bloomed and filled the room with a gentle, calm scent. Ichigo breathed deeply and relaxed.

“That’s amazing.” Ichigo said with a smile.

Loki waved his hand and it disappeared.

“I was honored to have her as a teacher and as a mother.” Loki said.

“Was?” Ichigo asked, confused.

“Yes, one of my many regrets, unfortunately.” Loki said and Ichigo just accepted the vague answer for what it was.

They drifted off to sleep.

—sSs—

The next day, when Ichigo returned from school, he seemed deep in thought about something. This time, instead of those cups, he had some containers of food. Loki eagerly grabbed one, excited for new tastes. Ichigo explained it was a type of stir fry and Loki devoured the whole thing. Finally, Ichigo spoke.

“Ok, I have to ask because well, I did do some research the last few days because being honest here, the names of your family members tugged at something in the back of my brain. Are you THE Loki? From Norse Mythology?” Ichigo asked.

“The very same. Though I can admit some tales were taken out of context.” Loki said.

“Right, so when you called for Thor… you meant THE God of Thunder.” Ichigo stated.

Loki stared at him.

“What do you mean I called for him? I would not call for Thor.” Loki shook his head.

Ichigo raised an eyebrow.

“You called for him more than once. You even called me Thor, kept apologizing for something. I really didn’t understand what you were apologizing for, but you seemed really desperate to get me to understand that you were sorry.” Ichigo said softly.

Loki had to keep his mouth from falling open. Had he really been that out of it? By the gods, that’s embarrassing.

“Oh.” Loki muttered.

Ichigo shifted slightly, embarrassed.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you.” Ichigo muttered.

“No, no, I am just… startled. It’s been a very long time since I have been that sick… Yes, I do mean that God of Thunder. Thor, the perfect son of Odin.” Loki tried to hide the sneer in his voice, but it was hard.

“Perfect huh?” Ichigo asked.

“Oh yes, the powerful, charming, amazing Thor.” Loki looked away with annoyance.

“You don’t see him that way?” Ichigo asked.

“Oh, absolutely not. Thor is an oaf, an idiot and a sham. The only thing he has going for him is his connection to Mjolnir.” Loki stated.

“Why’s that?” Ichigo asked.

“Well, anyone who has met him can say the same! The man is all action and no plans! He runs into things and never considers the consequences of his actions! Or what other people are going to have to clean up!” Loki threw his hands up in the air.

“Which is usually you, I am guessing?” Ichigo asked.

“Yes! Always me!” Loki stated hotly.

“Did Thor ask you to do that for him?” Ichigo asked.

Loki stared at him blankly.

“Well, no. He never did. But if I didn’t, then who else would have!” Loki said.

“Maybe he would have had to. And maybe learn a lesson from it?” Ichigo asked.

“Oh yes, it would be an older brother that would defend him.” Loki said annoyed.

Ichigo held up his hands.

“Hey, can’t deny that. But I do think that if Thor is as much of a selfish prick as you describe, then he must be an absolute asshole. Worst big brother to ever exist. You are better off without him.” Ichigo said with a nod.

“Well, I do not say that. Thor wasn’t always that way. He was kind and caring when we were children. I… looked up to him quite a bit. When he gained his Godly title, I think it went to his head.” Loki stated when Ichigo’s words rubbed him the wrong way.

“Yeah, I think that’s pretty common.” Ichigo said.

Loki stared at him.

“As an older brother, what would you do… if you found out your younger sibling… wasn’t related to you?” Loki asked slowly.

Ichigo raised an eyebrow.

“You act as if I would give a damn. Blood or not, if you are my family, I would kill for you. End of story.” Ichigo said seriously.

“So serious.” Loki mocked.

“It’s true though… I had a friend.” Ichigo paused.

“A friend?” Loki asked.

“Her name was Rukia. When I met her, it was… well under weird circumstances, but I still think of her like one of my sisters. I have and would kill for her if she asked me to.” Ichigo stated.

“Oh my.” Loki said.

“Her brother, on the other hand, would have killed her if that meant keeping his way of life. I had to knock some sense into him after meeting him the first time. Sometimes, big brothers don’t always know what is best. Sometimes they need to learn the hard way.” Ichigo said.

“And you would, what, punch Thor for me if it came down to it? To teach him that lesson?” Loki chuckled.

Ichigo had a thoughtful look on his face.

“I mean, I would try. Not sure I would get close enough for it to land, but I would certainly try.” Ichigo stated.

“Do not!” Loki gasped out a laugh.

“Hey, it will only happen if I meet him, which, like who knows if that would happen!” Ichigo replied quickly5.

“He would snap you like a twig!” Loki said between laughter.

“Hey! I’m a lot stronger than I look!” Ichigo said, flexing his arm muscles.

“He is a God. You are a mortal. It would not even be a competition.” Loki shook his head.

Ichigo scuffed and crossed his arms.

“Whatever. I could take Thor.” Ichigo grumbled.

Loki had to hold his stomach, he was laughing so hard. It was so strange. He had never felt so comfortable with a person before.

“You are a very strange mortal.” Loki said after he got himself under control.

“I hope that is a good thing. I have been called a lot of things, but a strange mortal is certainly a new one.” Ichigo shook his head.

“Such as?” Loki asked.

“The usual. Loser, delinquent, punk, Yakuza, the list goes on.” Ichigo shrugged.

Loki stared at him blankly.

“I have no idea what any of those words mean.” Loki admitted.

“Ah, they are used for guys like me. You know, colored hair and bad attitudes? Can’t say they are 100% wrong.” Ichigo said, pulling on a strand of hair.

“What does your hair color have to do with anything?” Loki asked, baffled.

“Well, not a lot of people have hair like mine. It’s considered odd or weird, especially by older people.” Ichigo stated.

“But… you said your’s is natural?” Loki asked.

“It is. Doesn’t mean that they accept it any easier. Just another weirdo with brightly colored hair.” Ichigo shrugged.

“You mortals truly focus on the oddest things.” Loki muttered.

“Old people don’t really have anything better to do than to bitch about the young people.” Ichigo said.

“So it seems. You would think with how short your life spans on, they would focus on something more important.” Loki leaned against his headrest.

“Yeah, you would think. Anyway, you still look tired. I have some homework to work on, so I’m gonna focus on that.” Ichigo stood up and grabbed his bag.

Loki nodded tiredly as he slipped back under the covers. Ichigo settled down at his bedside and pulled out a notebook that he started to write in. The scratching of pen on paper was rather soothing and Loki soon slipped into sleep.

Chapter Text

Loud yelling awoke Loki the next day. He grumbled and tried to roll over to get some more sleep when a loud crash made him quickly sit up. Looking to the door he watched it slam open and then Ichigo stepped inside.

“I told you to fuck off already! I’m not even doing anything wrong! So just leave me alone!” Ichigo roared.

Another voice tried to argue with him, but Ichigo just slammed the door shut. There were several loud bangs from the other side, but eventually it stopped. Loki frowned as Ichigo gritted his teeth and slammed his hand against the door in anger.

“Yeah, fuck you too!” Ichigo yelled.

“Is everything alright?” Loki asked.

Ichigo turned to him, startled before he sighed.

“Shit, did we wake you up? Sorry about that.” Ichigo moved towards him and Loki immediately noticed he had a limp.

“Are you injured?” Loki asked with alarm.

“What? Oh, I mean kind of? It’s fine.” Ichigo waved him off and Loki stared at him blankly.

“You did not have that limp yesterday.” Loki insisted.

“I told you, it’s fine. It will heal.” Ichigo replied as he pulled out more containers of food.

“You got into a fight with that other individual. Do I need to bring them back here to apologize?” Loki demanded, eyes narrowed.

Ichigo looked at him and then sighed.

“Yeah, even if you did, that wouldn’t happen. Dad’s too stubborn for that.” Ichigo replied.

“Your father attacked you? For what reason?” Loki asked.

“Loki, he didn’t attack me. He was… concerned. That’s all.” Ichigo said and Loki’s eyes narrowed at the clear lie.

“Concerned…” Loki said slowly.

Ichigo sighed and held up the food containers.

“He wanted to know what I was doing with these. Said I was taking food out of my sisters’ mouths. It’s fine. I will make it up to them later.” Ichigo explained.

“That’s absurd.” Loki huffed.

“It’s fine. I don’t blame him for being cautious. Come on, let’s get some food in you.” Ichigo stated.

Loki considered pushing more, but it was clear Ichigo was going to shut down any additional conversation. Loki sat back against the headrest and watched him as he limped around, warming up the food and getting it ready.

“Here. Eat slowly, it will be very hot.” Ichigo said, handing off the plate.

Loki took it and let the plate sit for a moment before he dug in. It was very good. Much spicier than what he had eaten previously.

“O-Oh my.” Loki started to cough lightly.

“Not used to spicy huh?” Ichigo handed him some water.

“Not this kind.” Loki coughed lightly.

“Just take it easy.” Ichigo patted him on the back, but was smirking.

“Y-You did this on purpose.” Loki whispered.

“I just wanted to see what your tolerance was. My sister’s food can lean into the spices a little bit.” Ichigo said, shrugging.

“I-I will keep that in mind.” Loki said as his body finally started to get used to the heat.

Finishing the food, Loki eyed Ichigo as he handed off the plate. He was feeling much stronger today, even better than the last few days. He could very easily leave and have no problems, but now he didn’t want to.

“No school today?” Loki asked.

“Hm? Ah, no. It’s the weekend. We get these days off. To recharge our batteries or whatever.” Ichigo shrugged.

“Oh, do you have plans then?” Loki asked, curiously.

“Plans… yeah no, I just planned on being here. Unless… you want some time alone.” Ichigo rubbed the back of his head nervously.

“Surely you have more people to hang out with than me?” Loki asked, eyebrow raised.

He couldn’t imagine the young man not having friends. Ichigo huffed.

“Not anymore.” Ichigo mumbled.

Loki hummed and then stood up.

“Well, I am tired of just laying here all day. I think it’s time you show me this charming town of your’s.” Loki said stretching.

“Are you sure?” Ichigo asked worriedly.

“Of course. I am tired of these walls. It’s time for a change of scenery.” Loki snapped his fingers and put on his armor.

“Ummmm yeah that’s…” Ichigo trailed off.

“Hm? Is something wrong?” Loki asked.

“Loki, I’m going to be serious about this, you cannot go out looking like that.” Ichigo said.

“Oh? And why is that?” Loki asked.

Ichigo just gave him a bored look and Loki sighed before he snapped his fingers again. Now he was in a nice green button up with sleeves rolled up, black slacks, a belt with a buckle shaped like his horns and shiny black shoes.

“Better?” Loki asked.

Ichigo was staring at him, wide eyed before he came back to himself and coughed into his hand with a flush.

“Y-Yeah! You look good.” Ichigo quickly turned and Loki followed him to the door.

Loki’s ego was stroked, but kept it to himself. As they stepped outside, Loki looked around and hummed.

“Quite a bad area, hm?” Loki asked.

“I mean yeah, but don’t worry about it.” Ichigo led them away from that area and into the town itself.

It was quite a nice town, actually. Loki was pleasantly surprised by how big it was. They wandered around for a while, exploring the area. Ichigo showed him a few places he liked to go to, like a bookstore and a coffee shop. They did end up getting a coffee and sitting near the window, watching as people walked by.

“So what do you think so far?” Ichigo asked before sipping his coffee.

“Well, it’s certainly not the biggest town I have ever seen, but it’s a cute little place. A rather charming feel to it.” Loki said pleasantly.

His tea was wonderful, brewed perfectly. Of course, he had used a bit of magic to do that, but he wasn’t about to let Ichigo waste his money on tea that wasn’t worth drinking.

“Yeah, I love this place.” Ichigo looked out the window and there was an almost painful look in his eyes.

“To love something can be painful.” Loki stated.

“Yeah, really painful.” Ichigo’s eyes landed on a group of people.

Loki watched as the painful look became even worse. He eyed the group. A tall dark skinned young man, a blue haired young man, an orange haired girl, a black short haired girl, a young man playing on some kind of device and then a brown haired young man who was very animated. They walked by on the other side of the street and Ichigo’s eyes followed them as they walked past before disappearing around a corner. Loki could see they were about the same age as Ichigo. Perhaps old friends? Loki hummed lightly as Ichigo turned back and sipped his drink.

“So tell me, what else does your town have to offer? Anything exciting?” Loki asked.

“Exciting? I don’t know if I want to know what your idea of exciting is.” Ichigo eyed him.

“Come now! I already told you, those stories about me were taken out of context.” Loki said with a smile.

“You also told me you were a liar, or wait, sorry, the King of Liars. So.” Ichigo raised an eyebrow at him.

“I promise you, I will be nothing, but delightful while I am still healing.” Loki said sweetly.

“I guess there’s nothing I can do if you decide not to keep that promise.” Ichigo sighed as he got up.

They left the coffee shop and wandered around a bit more. Ichigo pointed out his school, his favorite park and even his father’s clinic (Loki made a note of that location for later). As the sun was starting to go down, Loki could admit he was starting to feel tired and sore. They agreed to head back to the warehouse when they were suddenly approached by a group of young men.

“Yo! Kurosaki!” the boy in front spat.

Ichigo raised an eyebrow as he glanced around. His body tensed as he slipped in front of Loki. Loki blinked, startled.

“Yeah?” Ichigo demanded.

“You little punk, how dare you fuck with my bros!” the man snarled.

“Your bros? You are going to have to be more specific.” Ichigo replied.

“You son of a bitch! You kicked the crap out of my bros last week!” he snapped.

Ichigo huffed and rolled his eyes.

“Like I said, you are going to have to be more specific. I kicked the crap out of like 3 different groups last week.” Ichigo stated.

“You fucking bitch!” the man charged at Ichigo, fist raised.

The other two guys with him pulled out bats and while Loki got ready to defend them, Ichigo dodged the fist, grabbed it and sent the guy back into the other two. They fell to the ground and Ichigo stood over them.

“Give it up. I have no time for this shit today.” Ichigo demanded.

“Fuck you, Kurosaki! One day someone’s gonna put you in your place-!” the man’s speech was cut off when Ichigo slammed his foot into the other’s face.

“Shut up. You’re annoying. Let’s go, Loki.” Ichigo said.

“Coming.” Loki eyed the three of them before he followed Ichigo away from the scene.

“Man, what a pain. Sorry about that.” Ichigo rubbed the back of his neck.

“Is that common?” Loki asked curiously.

“Yeah. Like I said, people think I’m a punk, so they act like it.” Ichigo said.

“And being a punk means getting attacked randomly?” Loki asked.

“So, they have some kind of stupid idea that I actually want to fight them? I don’t, it just happened and now, it’s almost daily. I don’t really care? Like I got used to it over the years.” Ichigo replied.

“Years? This has happened for years?” Loki raised an eyebrow.

“Well, yeah. Since I was like ten?” Ichigo said, confused.

“Hm. I suppose that is one way to get used to battle. Growing up, Thor and I were put into situations like this to make sure we were ready for the real world, but we were quite a bit older than that.” Loki said thoughtfully.

“I mean it’s not a big deal. I can handle it.” Ichigo said.

“No, no, I did not mean to critique your fighting. You were quite efficient. I was impressed. No wasted energy or movements. That takes a lot of training and practice.” Loki nodded.

“Oh… thanks I guess?” Ichigo muttered.

They continued on their way before they arrived at the warehouse. Loki hadn’t realized how exhausted he was until he sat down on the bed. His clothes faded away, back into his pajamas. Ichigo sat in his chair, only to hiss and shift slightly.

“Are you still sore?” Loki asked.

“A little. Like I said, it’s fine.” Ichigo waved off his concerns and that was annoying.

Loki waved his hand and Ichigo yelped as his back started to heat up and then sighed as it cooled down. The pain was soon gone.

“There, better?” Loki said with a smirk.

“Thank you, but if you could do that the whole time, why not heal yourself?” Ichigo asked.

“Well, thanks to your amazing assistance, there was not anything left for me to heal. I am mostly dealing with magical exhaustion more than anything else. I assume I subconsciously used a lot of magic to teleport myself here.” Loki explained.

“Oh… uhhh happy to help, I guess. Is that going to take long?” Ichigo asked curiously.

“Hmm, yes and no. I have a vast amount of magic and it seems I used quite a bit of it trying to protect myself. It will return.” Loki stated.

“And then you are off, huh?” Ichigo looked away.

“You know, you have a very interesting obsession with me leaving. Tell me, why are you so ready to get rid of me?” Loki asked.

“Get rid of you! No, I’m not trying to get rid of you! I just…” Ichigo started to get loud, but he quickly cut himself off and then he sat back.

“If I may guess…?” Loki asked.

Ichigo glanced at him.

“I cannot help, but think that you have been through this before. Perhaps someone or a group of people left you behind before and you are just trying not to be hurt.” Loki stated.

Ichigo sighed deeply and rubbed his eyes.

“Yeah, hit the nail on the head, unfortunately.” Ichigo admitted.

“It was not hard to figure out.” Loki replied.

“Great.” Ichigo scuffed, sadly.

Loki stared at him before he sighed.

“I know that feeling well.” Loki muttered.

“That so? I can’t imagine. You’re such a charmer.” Ichigo said with a half-smile.

“Ah, how cheeky. But yes, it must be shocking for you to know I did not grow up making friends as easily as Thor did.” Loki said, hand against his own chest.

“Can’t imagine why.” Ichigo chuckled.

“Some people seemed to think my harmless pranks were “inappropriate” and “dangerous”.” Loki said using air quotes.

“Really! How could they think such a thing!” Ichigo mocked.

“I know! I mean really! Most of them were harmless… most.” Loki said as Ichigo started to laugh.

It was a nice sound.

“I can only imagine that you didn’t let them get the better of you.” Ichigo said.

“Most certainly not. I do not let slights against my name stand.” Loki replied.

“According to lore, you never did.” Ichigo raised an eyebrow.

“And I never will. Let them speak ill of you once and they will never stop. That is a lesson I live by.” Loki said with his nose in the air.

“Yeah, I get that.” Ichigo sighed and stood up.

Loki saw him look around before Ichigo looked at him.

“Can you…tell me more about magic?” Ichigo asked quietly.

“Oh?” Loki said.

“I mean… I dunno, magic is something you hear about in books and movies, you know? To see it in person…” Ichigo trailed off, embarrassed.

Loki chuckled and held out his hand. Sparks exploded from his fingertips and Ichigo leaned in eagerly.

“Magic exists in all things. The world around you is made of magic, even if we cannot see it with the bare eye.” Loki explained.

“That’s amazing.” Ichigo muttered as the last of the sparks died out.

“Think of magic as a living, breathing thing. It cannot be fully contained or controlled, just guided to do what the wielder wishes.” Loki explained.

“Even for the God of Mischief?” Ichigo asked.

“I am a God, yes, but even Gods can harmed or killed, as you know. You would be surprised how many Gods are killed by their own magic turning against them.” Loki said.

Ichigo locked eyes with him, worriedly.

“Do not be concerned for me. As I told you before, I learned from the best.” Loki said as Ichigo nodded.

Loki let out a deep sigh and Ichigo stood up. He heated up some more food, which Loki ate before he slipped under the covers and fell asleep.

—sSs—

When Loki woke up next, he was alone again. He waited for Ichigo to appear, but he didn’t. Time went by, minutes and then hours. Eventually, Loki got to his feet, he was starving and thirsty. Grabbing some of the food Ichigo had brought, Loki suddenly found himself in a pickle. Staring at the odd device Ichigo had used previously to heat up the food, Loki realized he had no idea how to work it.

“Oh dear.” Loki muttered.

Randomly pushing buttons, trying to get it to do something, Loki quickly found himself annoyed. Huffing as he pulled the food from the device and noticed it was still partially cold, he gave up and just ate it, hunger winning out against his desire to fight with the damn thing.

When he was done, he half expected Ichigo to appear, but the young man was nowhere to be found. Frowning, Loki wondered if something had gone wrong, but decided that Ichigo would return eventually. Sitting back in his bed, he entertained himself by reciting as many magic spells as he could remember, even some he had made up. But as the sun outside started to set, Loki found himself… worried.

Was Ichigo alright? Had something happened to the young man? Loki gave it another half hour before he got up. With a snap of his fingers, he put his armor on and swept out of the warehouse. Holding out his hand, he made a small magic bird.

“Find him.” Loki demanded, feeding the bird some energy.

The bird fluttered off and Loki was quick to follow. Eventually, it slowed down and Loki frowned. They were at a cemetery and Ichigo was just… standing there. With a wave, Loki’s bird disappeared and he switched from his armor to his clothes from the day before.

“Ichigo?” Loki called.

Ichigo glanced at him, startled before Ichigo winced.

“Ah, Loki… sorry.” Ichigo muttered.

Loki walked over and stood beside him. Looking down, he saw a grave.

“Is this… she?” Loki asked.

Ichigo nodded.

“Today… is her birthday… I missed it last year, so I had to make it up to her this year. I’m sorry, I forgot to say something yesterday.” Ichigo muttered.

Loki nodded thoughtfully.

“Am I to guess this was also the reason your father was not pleased yesterday?” Loki asked.

“He was upset that I was going by myself. We always go as a family, but… like I said, I haven’t really spoken to him recently, so I was just going to go by myself and have some alone time with her, but I lost track of time.” Ichigo admitted.

“I see… hello, Ma’am. My name is Loki. Your son has been a wonderful host to me over these past few weeks. You should be very proud of him.” Loki bowed to the grave, much to Ichigo’s shock.

“Loki.” Ichigo muttered.

Loki glanced at him and Ichigo swallowed before he nodded.

“Hey Mom. Like he said, his name is Loki. I think you would have liked him. He’s got that wicked sense of humor you always liked.” Ichigo’s voice shook, but his words were strong.

They went back and forth, speaking to Masaki as if she was really there before the sun finally fully dipped below the horizon and it was dark.

“Mom, we have to go, but I’ll be back. Happy Birthday.” Ichigo pressed his hand to the grave before he pulled away and wiped his eyes with his sleeve.

As they walked away, Loki felt a strange feeling come over him. A quick glance over his shoulder, he noticed a small butterfly landed on the grave. He smiled and turned back to Ichigo.

“It was lovely meeting her.” Loki said.

Ichigo chuckled tiredly. As they walked, heading back to the warehouse, Ichigo suddenly stopped and looked around.

“What was that?” Ichigo asked.

Loki’s eyes narrowed as he looked around, sending out his magic to scan the area when he found something. Loki threw up a shield as one of those white creatures appeared, attempting to grab them. It’s hand slammed against the barrier and it howled in pain.

“Oh my, what a nasty beast.” Loki hissed.

“Loki, what is it?” Ichigo demanded, his eyes darting all over the place.

“Can you not see this thing?” Loki demanded as he wrapped it in chains.

“Hungry! HUNGRY!” the creature howled as it rolled around, trying to get free.

“See what?” Ichigo looked at him, confused.

“Hm, interesting.” Loki looked at the creature again.

It was completely white with a strange mask. Loki waved his hand and it was lifted up so Loki could get a better look.

“Loki?” Ichigo called, confused.

“It’s some sort of white creature with a mask.” Loki stated.

Ichigo’s face fell before he sighed and rubbed his eyes.

“It’s called a Hollow. It’s a soul that lost it’s way.” Ichigo said softly.

“I have never heard of such a thing and I thought you said there were no monsters here?” Loki raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah, well, they aren’t actually monsters.” Ichigo huffed.

“I see.” Loki looked at the creature again before he set it aflame.

It screeched as it died, but Loki’s attention had moved on to a young man standing in the darkness, holding a glowing bow. Their eyes locked and Loki raised an eyebrow at him. It was the blue haired man from the day before, standing there before he turned and disappeared. Loki was curious, but kept it to himself, for now.

“I wish to know more and you seem to know quite a bit. Perhaps we shall return and you will be more honest with me, hm?” Loki asked.

Ichigo gritted his teeth.

“Honest? I have been honest, Loki.” Ichigo stated.

“I apologize, that was the wrong word to use.” Loki replied easily.

“You aren’t really the type of guy to use the wrong word unless it benefits you.” Ichigo stated.

“I would have to say you are correct about that, but… in this case, there are certain things you have not shared with me.” Loki said.

“Did you think maybe I didn’t share them because I don’t want to think about them! Damnit, Loki! This isn’t just about you!” Ichigo snapped.

Loki stared at him, blankly.

“Perhaps I have overstayed my welcome.” Loki said coldly.

Ichigo stared back at him before crossing his arms.

“You haven’t overstayed anything, but if you think it’s time to move on, then be my guest.” With that, Ichigo turned on his heel to leave.

Maybe Loki had just been distracted by the other creature, but the second Ichigo stepped out of his protective barrier, he was grabbed and dragged out of sight.

“Ichigo!” Loki yelled.

“Loki!” Ichigo yelled back.

Loki cursed and turned into a small orb before chasing after him. Ichigo was dragged through the trees, cursing as he tried to protect himself from the branches. Eventually, they ended up in a large clearing, where a large white creature was sitting. Ichigo was struggling, trying to get free. Loki appeared and looked at the creature.

“My, what an ugly creature.” Loki said.

“What is this?” the creature hissed.

“Loki, God of Mischief and you need to release that young man right now. Or you will suffer.” Loki stated.

“Release him? Suffering? You puny thing! Like I would release a meal such as this! Most would kill for a chance at a bite of a soul so delicious!” the creature laughed and shook Ichigo around, making him yelp.

“Loki!” Ichigo cried.

“Well, this “puny thing” is going to make you regret it.” Loki said with a smirk.

Loki reached up and called upon his helmet and staff. With a wave of his staff, the arm holding Ichigo was cut off. Ichigo yelped as he started to fall, but a cloud appeared under him and caught him. The creature howled as Ichigo floated over and was placed on the ground behind Loki.

“You!” the creature howled, reaching for him with the other arm.

Loki sighed deeply.

“Begone with you.” Loki said.

The creature went up in flames, screeching the whole way. Ichigo swallowed, his eyes staring wide eyed at the flames.

“Loki? Is it gone?” Ichigo asked, his body tense.

“Burned to ashes.” Loki agreed.

Ichigo sighed and rubbed his eyes.

“It did call you a delicious soul. So you can add that to your list of names.” Loki said with a smirk.

“Great.” Ichigo replied.

“Now, are you going to explain?” Loki asked.

“Yes, fine, just… not here.” Ichigo muttered.

With a snap, they were back at the warehouse. Ichigo’s eyes slid to him.

“You could do that the whole time?” Ichigo asked, annoyed.

“About your explanation.” Loki ignored his question as he sat on the bed.

“It’s a super long story…” Ichigo muttered.

“I have plenty of time. I promise you that.” Loki settled back against the headrest.

Ichigo sighed deeply and sat in his chair. Staring at the ceiling, he closed his eyes.

“It started the night I met Rukia. A Shinigami.” Ichigo said.

The whole story took a while. Ichigo seemed to struggle to keep on track, going off on little tangents or side stories that he seemed to think relevant. Loki struggled to just keep up with the amount of people in this story and how they were important. As Ichigo focused on the war, he struggled to talk about what happened, what his position had been in the war and what he had lost.

“And then I woke up. My powers were gone and… that’s how it’s been.” Ichigo finished.

Loki sat in silence, trying to regulate his own emotions before he spoke, but it was hard. Ichigo seemed concerned when he didn’t say anything.

“Loki, I am going to need some kind of reaction here.” Ichigo said eventually.

“What happened to you… is unforgivable.” Loki said coldly.

“Loki…” Ichigo stopped when Loki held up his hand.

“Please, let me finish.” Loki said.

Ichigo nodded and sat back. Loki dropped his hand and stared at Ichigo.

“In Asgard, when a warrior returns from battle, they are treated with honor, with dignity and with respect. They put their lives on the line and that is not something taken lightly. When a warrior loses their life in battle, they are honored to the highest degree because it is believed they gave their all and went down only when they had finally run out of energy to give.” Loki explained.

“Ok?” Ichigo stressed.

“Had you been in Asgard, you would have been celebrated for what you have accomplished. The fact that you were abandoned by those you called allies… that I cannot forgive.” Loki said darkly.

“But we aren’t in Asgard, Loki. Look, I did what I had to. I had to save my town. What I gave up? It was worth it to make sure that happened.” Ichigo insisted.

Loki felt his jaw start to ache. He was sure he had never felt such rage, such injustice or disrespect for another person, but he shoved that down. Now was not the time to make Ichigo feel bad. Later, when he was capable, he would find those who harmed the young man and make them regret it all.

“I see. You are truly very noble.” Loki said.

Ichigo sighed, as if he was annoyed.

“Noble, right. Anyway, that’s the whole story. I could see the Hollows at one point, but now I can’t.” Ichigo said.

“But they are drawn to you, because that was the third I have seen.” Loki said.

“The third? Shit. I wonder if there is anyone actually watching over this town or if they are leaving it to my friends.” Ichigo rubbed his face.

“Well, if they are, they aren’t doing a very good job.” Loki said, eyebrow raised.

“Loki, they are all still in high school. There is only so much they can do.” Ichigo stated.

“I will take that into consideration.” Loki said, clearly having no plan to do that at all.

Ichigo looked at him and then looked away.

“Thank you and I’m sorry… for the way I acted before. It’s just… hard to think about these things and even just talking about ghosts and hollows remind me of what I lost.” Ichigo sighed.

Loki sighed deeply and placed a hand to his shoulder.

“You have had a lot placed on your shoulders from a very young age. I cannot blame you, but I thank you for apologizing. That being said, I do not wish to leave just yet.” Loki explained.

Ichigo nodded and got up. They lapsed into a comfortable silence.

Chapter Text

It was only a matter of time, Loki supposed. Ever since he had seen that young man in the graveyard, he had expected someone to come looking and two days later, while Ichigo was out, someone did.

“Hello there.” Loki said.

The second he had sensed someone coming, he had changed the bed back into a couch and was now sitting on it with another couch across from him and a tray of tea on the coffee table. He sat waiting with a cup of tea in hand. The man and woman before him felt older than they looked when they finally appeared. He was dressed rather uniquely, his striped hat and fan made Loki smirk. She was dressed simply.

“Hello~!” The strip hatted man said.

Loki’s eyes turned to the young lady next to him and Loki’s smile sharpened.

“Hello again, Miss Spy Kitty.” Loki said sweetly.

The two of them immediately straightened up. Amused, Loki waved his hand.

“Shall we sit and chat? I believe we have much to discuss.” Loki stated.

“So it seems.” The woman said.

They sat across from him and took the tea he had made, but did not drink anything. Clever. Loki didn’t bother to play their game and sipped his own tea with delight.

“Shall we start with introductions?” Loki asked.

“That would be delightful.” The hatted man said with a smile, despite not giving his own name first.

“Wonderful, I will go first. I am Loki.” Loki stated.

The man’s eyes sharpened.

“Like… the god?” the woman asked.

“Oh yes.” Loki said.

With a smile, his clothes shifted to his armor and then back. The two of them stared with shock and concern.

“Just like the God.” Loki stated.

“I see. Well, I suppose there is no reason to hide who we are. I am Urahara Kisuke.” Urahara replied.

“And I am Shihoin Yoruichi.” Yoruichi said.

“Excellent. Now that that is out of the way, we can focus.” Loki said.

“Yes, we can. So let’s get down to business, what is your interest in Kurosaki-san?” Urahara asked, fanning himself lightly.

Loki stared blankly.

“Who?” Loki replied.

“Ichigo.” Yoruichi cut in.

“Ahh! Yes, yes, my apologies. I don’t go around calling the man who saved my life by his surname.” Loki said as he put his cup down.

He saw Urahara’s pinkie finger twitch at the comment.

“Saved your life?” Yoruichi asked.

“Please, Miss Spy, don’t act as if you have not been listening in on our conversations. You heard at least one, so try not to play dumb. It does not look good on you.” Loki stated.

“Explain it to us anyway.” Urahara stated.

“Well, as you can see from the hole in the ceiling, I had a rather nasty fall and your young friend was kind enough to take care of me while I healed.” Loki stated.

“For over a month? My, that was a very nasty fall in that case.” Urahara said.

“Oh, most certainly. A horrible, awful fall and for that I am very, very grateful to Ichigo for helping me as he did. Which…” Loki paused and his smile died.

Loki’s eyes narrowed as he looked between them.

“So, now that I have put that on the table, care to tell me why exactly you are here?” Loki asked.

For the first time, Urahara took his cup and sipped it. Loki raised an eyebrow when he did.

“We are here because we are concerned. As I am sure you know, we trained Kurosaki-san for the war that ended some months ago. Afterwards, we were told to leave him alone, let him rest and recover from the war by his father. Your sudden appearance has been noted as an… issue.” Urahara explained.

Loki hummed lightly.

“His father? The same man who accused him of stealing food from his sisters and threw him into a door when he fought back? That father?” Loki asked.

Urahara stared at him blankly.

“Seems odd to me… I mean, if his father is so very concerned for him, I can only imagine how terrified and worried he must be every night when Ichigo does not return home. Instead, choosing to sleep in a sleeping bag in a warehouse in a rather bad side of town. I would have thought he would have come here more, attempting to get his dear son home safe and sound. Then again, what do I know? Perhaps this man has been keeping an eye on him and my magic just has not been able to find him. I mean it’s never happened before, but miracles can happen.” Loki stated.

Yoruichi glanced at Urahara. It was clear she had feelings about this, but kept her mouth shut.

“I just have to question, if you will indulge me.” Loki said.

“Very well.” Urahara agreed.

“What is your plan now?” Loki asked.

Urahara stayed quiet before he spoke.

“I was working on a way… to restore his powers. However… so far it has been more… complicated than predicted.” Urahara replied.

“Hm, that so.” Loki stated.

“Well, Magic Boy, what about you? Can’t you just magic his powers back?” Yoruichi asked, arms crossed.

“Oh Heavens no! Unless I want to destroy him from the inside out!” Loki said agasp.

“Destroy him?” Urahara asked.

Loki sighed and placed his cup down.

“What you are describing is the most damaging thing a soul can go through and Ichigo, according to what he explained to me, was 15! He was still growing, maturing and changing in ways that have now been lost forever! His soul will never fully heal, even if you did return his powers! There will always be little cracks that will not be fixed by your meddling!” Loki said seriously.

Urahara swallowed and looked down. Yoruichi was stone faced, but he could see how hard her nails were digging into her skin.

“I must make this clear: Ichigo will never be fully healed and especially if I were to go in and try to fix it, there is a good chance I could make it worse. I have no background on what his soul should look like and I have never tried to use the magic in your world before. It could all go very, very wrong.” Loki finished.

Urahara pulled his hat down more.

“I see.” he muttered.

Loki sighed.

“I can guide your hand, but that is it. You will still need to create whatever you believe will return his powers, but when you do, I will be there to make sure it does not go wrong. That is all I can do.” Loki stated.

Urahara nodded and stood up while Yoruichi did the same. He finished his tea and put it back down.

“Thank you. I hope we may work together in the future.” Urahara bowed lightly.

“Oh, we will. I find myself rather attached to Ichigo, so I will be sticking around for some time.” Loki said.

“That kid. Making friends with Gods now.” Yoruichi sighed, shaking her head.

“We will be taking our leave. I hope your tea helped prove our sincerity and honesty in concern to Kurosaki-san.” Urahara said. 

“Hm? Oh, the tea had nothing in it.” Loki said with a smile.

Urahara and Yoruichi both stopped dead.

“What?” Urahara demanded.

“Poisoning someone’s food is rather distasteful to me. So I did not. The door had a truth barrier on it. You were going to be compelled to tell me the truth the second you stepped inside anyway, no matter what. Have a good day.” Loki said with a wave.

Urahara and Yoruichi both looked like they swallowed a lemon, but said their goodbyes and left. Loki chuckled and sat back on his couch.

“Two down. Several to go.” Loki said as he finished his tea.

When Ichigo returned that night, he seemed deeply distracted. So distracted Loki had to use magic to keep him from burning himself while making dinner.

“Shit! Sorry.” Ichigo hissed.

“Rather distracted today, Ichigo.” Loki stated.

He had changed the couch back to a bed to keep Ichigo from getting suspicious. He would tell Ichigo about his little meeting… eventually. Right now did not seem like a good idea.

“Um yeah… sorry.” Ichigo muttered as he handed off a plate of food.

Loki ate his, but Ichigo did little more than move it around his plate.

“Are you alright?” Loki finally asked and Ichigo blinked at him.

Staring at Loki for a second, he eventually looked away.

“Some… weirdo approached me today.” Ichigo muttered.

“Weirdo? You will need to be more specific. There seems to be a lot of those in this town.” Loki stated.

“He said his name was Ginjo. I stopped a thief a few days ago who had stolen his bag. He seemed friendly enough, but I felt uneasy about him. He just keeps… showing up.” Ichigo admitted.

Loki’s eyes narrowed.

“And you fear this man has some kind of… alternative motive for approaching you?” Loki asked.

“He seems a little too persistent. I’m not gonna lie. Maybe I’m just paranoid after everything, but I don’t really trust him.” Ichigo sighed, rubbing the back of his neck.

Now, Loki wasn’t sure how much Ichigo was paranoid vs how much he was just always ready for the worst to happen. He had been the one to notice the hollow the other day, despite not having any ability to see it. Loki had chalked it up to warrior’s instinct at the time, but now he was curious if it was something more.

“Do you wish for me to check on this so called Ginjo?” Loki asked.

Ichigo glanced at him and then looked down.

“I don’t have a lot of people I trust right now, Loki. He said he knew things about my family, about me, and like…” Ichigo trailed off.

Loki tried to stop himself from wincing. Ichigo had so few people that he was trusting LOKI? Of all people? That was rough.

“Well then, I think we need to know more about this man. So leave it to me.” Loki said, hand against his chest.

Ichigo’s shoulders relaxed and he smiled.

“Thanks Loki.” Ichigo said.

—sSs—

Finding the man, this Ginjo, was like finding a bright light in the darkness. Loki located him easily enough the next day and followed him around while Ichigo was in school. Very quickly, it became apparent that this Ginjo wasn’t working alone. His eyes narrowed when he saw the young orange haired female and dark-skinned male from a few days ago, talking to Ginjo outside the school Ichigo went to before they went inside as the school bell rang.

Following him from there, Loki noted that he didn’t seem to have any set path. He was wandering around aimlessly, before he ended up at Naruki City. From what he could see there were others with similar auras working with him. Ginjo eventually ended up in an apartment complex and Loki just smiled.

“Showtime.” Loki muttered.

With a wave of his hand, he put on a disguise that made him look  and sound like Ichigo before he knocked on the door.

“Who is it!” a male voice called.

“Ginjo? It’s Ichigo.” Loki replied in Ichigo’s voice.

The door was yanked open by a nervously smiling Ginjo.

“Ichigo! My, I didn’t expect you.” Ginjo was nervous, that was clear.

Loki just huffed and looked annoyed.

“Sorry. I guess I should leave then.” Loki turned, only for Ginjo to yell.

“He-Hey! No worries, you just threw me off. That’s all. Come in, come in!” Ginjo held open the door and Loki stepped inside.

His eyes ran over everyone in the room, taking note of their strength and was not impressed. Jackie, Riruka, Giriko, Yukio, Moe and finally Ginjo were the only ones he could see, but he sensed there were still more hidden nearby. He would just have to drag the little rodents out.

“I have to admit, I’m a little shocked to see you here. Like I don’t remember telling you where to meet me.” Ginjo said as he sat on a nearby chair.

“You weren’t hard to follow.” Loki replied as he glanced around.

“You were following me? That’s kind of odd. All you had to do was talk to me. I thought we were on good terms after the other day.” Ginjo said, his hands clasped together.

“Yes, well, you were following me, so I wanted to return the favor.” Loki replied.

“Ok, what the fuck is up with this guy! Why is he so cocky!” Moe demanded.

“I have to admit, I am feeling a bit out of my depth here, Ichigo. Didn’t take you for a tit for tat kind of guy. Feeling a bit lost.” Ginjo said, a bead of sweat running down his forehead.

It was clear “Ichigo” showing up now was not what Ginjo had wanted. Loki could practically smell the plot he had brewing.

“Alright, let’s cut to the chase, shall we?” Loki demanded in his own voice.

Everyone immediately tensed up.

“Ginjo, what the fuck-?” Riruka started to say when Loki smiled and the Fullbringers were suddenly grabbed and tied down to various chairs.

“HEY!” Jackie yelled, struggling.

“What a drag.” Yukio sighed, but didn’t even try to break free.

When all of them were nice and snug, Loki stepped forward and his Ichigo disguise dropped to reveal his true self.

“Who are you!” Ginjo snapped, angrily.

“Who? Me? Why, I’m Loki.” Loki said with a smirk.

“What the fuck do you want!” Jackie demanded.

“Oh no, no, my dear. You are not the one asking the questions here. I am.” Loki said darkly.

Stepping up, he stood over Ginjo and eyed him up and down.

“You are an odd one. So full of anger and rage. Tell me, what was your plan for my dear friend, Ichigo?” Loki demanded.

“Fuck you!” Ginjo spat.

Loki raised an eyebrow before he sighed.

“You either tell me or I force it out of you. Those are your two options. Pick one. And please, choose wisely.” Loki stated.

“Like hell I am telling you anything!” Ginjo snapped before he smirked.

Loki was really starting to get tired of these games. He threw up a barrier, just before a sword hit him.

“What?” Tsukishima muttered when his sword did not hit.

“Tsukishima! Ginjo, what is he doing here!” Riruka yelled, shocked.

Ginjo tched, eyes narrowed as Tsukishima jumped back and stood there.

“What was that?” Tsukishima asked.

“A barrier to prevent any and all attacks on my person. Now, what piece are you in this little game?” Loki demanded, turning to him.

Tsukishima shifted slightly and Loki sighed. With a snap, Tsukishima was tied down to a chair as well. He was startled, struggling slightly before he gave up and stared at Loki.

“Well, now that I have all the players, perhaps we should go somewhere a little cozier, hm?” Loki glanced around before nodding.

In a flash, they were in the warehouse. The Fullbringers looked around, wildly before looking at Loki.

“You’re… what are you?” Ginjo asked nervously.

“I am-“ Loki was cut off when the door opened.

“Loki, I’m back-“ Ichigo cut himself off and stopped, staring.

He looked at each person before he groaned loudly and dropped his bag. He pressed his thumb and finger to the bridge of his nose before he finally looked up.

“Loki, what the fuck is this! Are you just kidnapping people now!” Ichigo asked exasperated, waving his hand in their general direction.

“Maybeeee.” Loki said, mockingly.

“Loki… as in…?” Tsukishima asked with a half-smile, sweat rolling down his forehead.

“The God of Mischief? The one and only!” Loki said with a smirk.

“What the fuck!” Moe yelled.

“This is quite concerning.” Giriko said.

“Quiet! All of you, keep your wits about you! There’s no way he’s a god! There’s no such thing!” Ginjo snapped.

“Oh? Is that so? Allow me to demonstrate.” Loki said with a wicked smile.

With a nod, Ginjo ended up as a goldfish, flopping around on the chair he had been sitting on.

“Loki! Turn him back, now!” Ichigo yelled.

“Oh fine.” Loki rolled his eyes.

In a second, Ginjo was back the way he was, hair out of its usual slick style. Ginjo stared at Loki in horror.

“I hope that was enough to prove myself, but if you need more convincing, I am more than happy to do so.” Loki said.

“Oh my god.” Riruka whispered in fear.

“Loki, what the fuck.” Ichigo rubbed his eyes with a sigh.

“You wished for me to find out about the man following you.” Loki replied.

“I meant for you to like read his mind or something and find out what he wanted from me! Not kidnap him and a bunch of random people!” Ichigo said.

“Well, you should have been clearer, but I thought this was better anyway. And besides, these are his cohorts in whatever he was planning.” Loki waved him off.

“Cohorts?” Ichigo looked around with confusion before looking at Loki again.

“What are you going to do to us?” Jackie demanded.

“Like I said, I want answers and you will provide them.” Loki replied.

“Ichigo!” Ginjo locked eyes with Ichigo.

“We meant you no harm, I promise you!” Ginjo said.

Ichigo crossed his arms with a frown.

“Loki?” Ichigo asked.

“Oh, he is lying through his teeth.” Loki said sweetly.

“Figured as much.” Ichigo sighed.

“He’s not very good at it. That’s probably why you clocked it so quickly that he was not sincere.” Loki said.

“Fuck you!” Ginjo snarled.

“I just want to know what he wanted from me. Is there any way we can get that? I’m ready to be done with… whatever this is.” Ichigo said.

“Well, there’s a fun way and a boring way to do it. Just say the word.” Loki said with a cruel smirk.

“I have a feeling your “fun way” includes something that would be considered torture, so boring way.” Ichigo stated.

Loki rolled his eyes.

“If that’s how you feel, very well.” Loki created a circle with his hands and a circle appeared under Ginjo’s chair.

“Hey! What is this!” Ginjo demanded.

“A truth circle. You will not be able to lie, no matter how hard you try.” Loki said.

“What!” Ginjo snapped.

“Ichigo said the boring way, but if you keep yelling, the fun way could come into effect.” Loki said, eyes narrowed.

Ichigo placed a hand on Loki’s shoulder.

“I got this from here. Thank you, Loki. Why don’t you go sit down?” Ichigo asked worriedly.

Loki gave him a smile. He had used quite a bit of magic so far and was starting to feel it. He walked over to his couch turned bed turned couch again and sat down. Ginjo’s eyes darted between them, nervously.

“Alright, let’s start from the beginning. Who are you and what the fuck do you want with me?” Ichigo demanded.

Ginjo gritted his teeth, his face slowly turning red as he tried to keep himself from speaking, but it was no use.

“No point in fighting! You will be compelled to answer as well. Did I forget to mention that?” Loki sang.

“I am… former Substitute Shinigami… Ginjo Kujo” Ginjo said through gritted teeth.

“Former?” Ichigo said, alarmed before he shook his head.

“Nevermind that. What do you want with me? With my family?” Ichigo demanded.

“I needed… your power.” Ginjo hissed.

“My power? The fuck are you talking about? I don’t have my powers anymore.” Ichigo snapped.

“We were going to help you get them back.” Riruka piped up.

Ichigo turned to her and raised an eyebrow.

“And then what? Brainwash me into working for you? Use my family as leverage? What exactly were you going to do once I had my powers back!” Ichigo demanded.

“I was going to take them.” Ginjo replied coldly.

Ichigo stared at him, blankly before he took a step back.

“You were going… to rip them away from me again?” Ichigo whispered.

“With your power, I could take revenge on Soul Society for what they did to me and my friends! You think you were the only one they used and threw away!” Ginjo yelled venomously as the other Fullbringers nodded.

Ichigo crossed his arms, his nails digging into his skin.

“Do you have any idea how painful that is? Do you have any idea how much I suffered the first time!” Ichigo yelled, looking around.

“No offense, but we don’t really care.” Yukio said boredly.

Ichigo glared hotly and glanced around. Loki, sensing this was going to go badly if this was kept up, waved his hand and all the other Fullbringers, besides Ginjo, found their lips stitched shut.

“HMPH!” Riruka screamed.

“I believe you all lost your speaking privileges.” Loki said coldly.

Ginjo stared in horror, realizing it could be so much worse before he turned back to Ichigo.

“How did you even think I would go with you?” Ichigo demanded.

Ginjo said nothing and Loki got bored waiting for him.

“I saw you.” Loki piped up.

Everyone turned to him.

“Speaking to that orange haired young lady and that dark skinned man who goes to your school.” Loki stated.

“Orihime and Chad? What the fuck did you want with them?” Ichigo demanded hotly.

“They are Fullbringers. I was… going to use them to get you to come with us.” Ginjo gritted his teeth, trying to keep the rest of his plan to himself.

“Unbelievable! So you are mad at Soul Society for using you, but you are willing to use them! What a fucking hypocrite!” Ichigo snapped.

“I don’t give a damn what you think of us! All you had to do was fucking listen to me!” Ginjo yelled back.

“Yeah, well, I’m glad I saw right through your shit.” Ichigo snapped before he turned and looked around again.

“You all are fucking disgusting! Acting like you are better than other people, but you didn’t have any problem with using other people who never did anything fucking wrong to you for your own goals!” Ichigo yelled.

No one could meet his eyes, but Ginjo. Ichigo turned to Loki and frowned.

“Are you done with them?” Loki asked.

“Yes, I don’t even want to look at them.” Ichigo hissed.

“Very well then. I think they need to be sent very far away so they cannot interfere with your life again. How does that sound?” Loki asked, standing up.

“I don’t care what you do with them or where you send them. Just… just send them away.” Ichigo turned and walked away, heading for the small kitchen.

Ichigo never saw the absolutely evil smile Loki shot all of them before he waved his hand and they all disappeared. Loki hoped they would enjoy their time in Hell. With that done, Loki sighed and fell back onto the couch. He covered his eyes with his arm.

“Are you alright?” Ichigo asked.

Loki looked at him and found him holding a tray of food and some sports drink. Ichigo helped him sit up and placed it on his lap.

“Thank you.” Loki said as he dug in.

“No… thank you, Loki.” Ichigo muttered.

Loki looked up. Ichigo looked so sad, but also so very grateful.

“You’re welcome.” Loki said with a smile.

Chapter Text

After his run in with the so called Fullbringers, Loki realized he had one more step to take before he could go after the Shinigami. When Ichigo had told him about his friends, Loki had just seen their actions as those of children without fully developed frontal lobes and no understanding of what war can do to people, but now he could see that they were misdirected (and maybe a bit stupid). So, in order to make sure what happened with the Fullbringers never happened again, Loki went out looking for more information.

The one, Chad, lived alone in an apartment near the one called Orihime. They are both orphans and as Loki watched them get up and go to school, he sensed great sadness in them. Stepping into Orihime’s apartment after she had left, Loki found a shrine to a young man clearly deceased. A thoughtful hum escaped him as he closed the doors. Going into Chad’s apartment, he found a similar shrine to an older man.

With this information, he looked into the others. Tatsuki lived with her mother, Keigo lived with his family and Mizuiro lived with his aunt. Each of them had their own issues and problems, which explained why Ichigo had been drawn to them and they to him. An odd group of misfits, connected to each other through circumstances beyond Loki’s understanding. Loki could sense that Ginjo had been correct, Orihime and Chad did hold the same type of power he did, but also it was very different. Now whether that was a good or bad thing, Loki had yet to determine, but he was sure by the end of the day, his mind would be made up.

As he turned his attention to the last one in the group, Loki wasn’t sure what he expected, but it wasn’t to find that same blue haired young man standing on the top of the nearby hospital, an arrow pointed in his direction.

“Can I help you?” the young man, Ishida, asked.

“Not particularly. I was just doing a bit of research on the strange people in this town.” Loki said as he landed on the roof, ignoring the young man’s clear threat.

“For what reason?” Ishida asked, eyes narrowed.

“My own curiosity. Now, what kind of weapon is this?” Loki asked as he came closer.

The second Loki got a bit too close, Ishida let the arrow fly, but Loki just huffed and with a wave, the arrow disappeared. Ishida’s eyes widened and he quickly pulled another, but Loki held up his hand.

“I mean no harm, but if you keep trying that, I will not be held responsible for my reaction to being attacked unprovoked.” Loki stated.

“I have seen you with Kurosaki. What is your relationship to him?” Ishida lowered the bow, but didn’t release the power, so the arrow was still there.

“Again with people calling him Kurosaki. You know, I would think you would call him by his name after he saved you all, but perhaps such respect is beyond your feeble ability.” Loki stated.

Ishida gritted his teeth.

“My question still stands.” Ishida said.

“And my answer is simple; none of your business.” Loki replied.

“It is my business considering you are a threat.” Ishida stated hotly.

“A threat and yet, I have not seen you do anything to help Ichigo other than skulk around in the shadows, watching us and possibly reporting back to that hat wearing man. Why if I was such a threat to your friend, I would have assumed you would come in, bow at the ready, to defend him considering he is defenseless… and yet…” Loki waved his hand, as if to say “you did nothing.”

Ishida looked annoyed, but really, Loki could have cared less.

“I won’t let you hurt him.” Ishida stated.

Loki would have rolled his eyes if he was a lesser being. Instead, he huffed out a laugh that seemed to echo around them. Ishida’s hair stood on end.

“Boy, if I wished to harm him, you nor anyone else in this damned city would have been able to stop me. If I wanted to torture him, I could have done so before any of you even noticed I was here. So please, do not act as if you are strong enough to stop me. It’s insulting.” Loki replied.

A flash of fear went through Ishida’s eyes before he straightened his spine.

“On my honor as a Quincy, I will protect my town from you. That includes Kurosaki. So you best leave him alone or else.” Ishida stated seriously.

“Leave him alone? Like you all did after the most damaging and terrifying thing that can ever happen to a person with power? Ah, I think not.” Loki sneered.

Ishida slightly flinched at that.

“Why do you know so much? I don’t understand.” Ishida muttered.

“Ichigo told me. He told me a lot of things.” Loki said, arms crossed.

Ishida's brow furled.

“Why?” Ishida asked.

“Because who else does he have? Certainly not you all.” Loki sneered.

Ishida looked down, looking ashamed.

“Tell me, did you know about the Fullbringers?” Loki asked.

“The ones Chad and Orihime were hanging out with? What of them?” Ishida asked, thrown off.

“Did you have any idea what kind of plot they had for your dear friend, Kurosaki? Or did you simply not care?” Loki demanded.

“Wait, wait, what plot are you talking about! Orihime and Chad would never do anything to harm Kurosaki!” Ishida snapped.

“Oh? Are you sure? Because then why were they working with those people then? Why did I see them talking to the ringleader, Ginjo?” Loki asked.

Ishida’s eyes narrowed.

“Silence, hm? How interesting. So, you are willing to stay silent when your so-called friends were working alongside a group that planned on giving Ichigo his power back, only to rip it away and use it for themselves?” Loki asked.

The way Ishida’s face fell was actually really amusing. His arrow finally fizzled out and he looked horrified.

“No… Orihime and Chad wouldn’t have agreed to that. They NEVER would have agreed to that.” Ishida whispered.

“Whether they did or not, that was what that group had planned. They planned on giving your friend his power back, only to steal it for themselves. Can you imagine? Do you have any idea what that would have done to him?” Loki demanded.

Ishida swallowed hard. Loki hummed and shook his head.

“Some friend. Some ally.” Loki said mockingly.

“I-I was trying to give him a normal life. Like his father asked of me.” Ishida said through gritted teeth.

“You know a lot of people are putting weight to his father’s desires and none to Ichigo’s. Maybe you need to reevaluate who you care about more.” Loki stated.

“I do care about Kurosaki!” Ishida yelled.

“Then SHOW it!” Loki snapped back.

“I can’t!” Ishida yelled.

Loki paused, eyebrow raised.

“Can’t… or won’t?” Loki said, head tilted to the side.

Ishida gritted his teeth.

“Because there is a very big difference.” Loki stated.

The bow eventually faded away.

“I know. I just…” Ishida reached up with a shaky hand and adjusted his glasses.

“I have to admit, I am disappointed. How little you are willing to do for a friend, someone who went out of his way to protect you.” Loki took a step back, fully ready to leave when Ishida spoke.

“Will you… protect him?” Ishida asked.

Loki turned his head and raised an eyebrow.

“Of course. I protect mine.” Loki disappeared, leaving Ishida on the roof.

Loki ended up at the school, waiting outside the gates. He saw Ichigo leave first, heading towards the warehouse  at a steady pace and thought about following him, but he had a plan and needed to stay on track. Orihime and Chad appeared at the front gate soon after and locked eyes with him. He smiled as they immediately came closer.

“Who are you?” Orihime demanded.

He was actually quite surprised by her boldness, but he straightened up.

“I am Loki. I’m sure your little blue haired friend warned you about me?” Loki asked.

Orihime nodded, but Chad just crossed his arms. Trying and failing to be intimidating. He was rather strong looking, but Loki had been raised around Asgardians and so Loki was not impressed. Strong looking did not always equal strength.

“You upset Ishida-kun. Why?” Orihime asked.

“I’m sure he is upset because I told him what a spineless coward and awful friend he was, but I suppose you two already know that since you are just as bad.” Loki stated.

Orihime flinched and Chad’s shoulders deflated a bit. Loki was pleased by their crestfallen faces. He was having a lot of fun with this today.

“Now, I am not someone who can talk about honor and morality, given my background. But even I know abandoning an ally after a major life event is rather cold hearted and cruel. Certainly not what I would expect of a group as interconnected as you all are.” Loki stated.

“We didn’t abandon him.” Chad said, but Loki just raised an eyebrow.

“Then what, pray tell, do you call it? Please tell me, I am so curious.” Loki mocked.

“Kurosaki-kun deserved to live normally after everything that happened. We wanted that for him.” Orihime said.

“Ah, so you have also decided to listen to his halfwit father. Wonderful.” Loki sneered.

“We want him to be happy.” Chad stated.

“Yet, you put him in the direct path of those Fullbringers.” Loki said.

Immediately both of them tensed. Chad’s arms dropped and he could see the energy starting to gather.

“Are you… the reason Ginjo disappeared?” Chad demanded.

“Disappeared? Oh no no, I sent him and his cohorts right where they belonged for the cruel plan they had against Ichigo. Hell.” Loki replied.

The two of them gasped in horror.

“Hell?” Chad demanded.

“Cruel plan?” Orihime asked, confused.

Loki looked between them and could tell almost immediately that they didn’t have any clue. He sighed deeply.

“Perhaps you should be a little more cautious about who you put your trust in. Ginjo was using you to get to Ichigo. His goal was to help Ichigo get his powers back and then immediately rip them away to add to his own power. And you were going to be the ones to lead Ichigo right into that trap.” Loki explained.

Orihime and Chad looked at each other, terrified before Chad straightened his spine.

“And how can we trust you?” Chad demanded.

“Ah, see? You are learning.” Loki said pointing.

Chad blinked, confused.

“There is no guarantee I am telling you the truth and let me tell you, the truth is not usually something I am known for. But the only other person who can confirm what I have told you is the dear friend you have abandoned. So unless you would like to go to him and start interrogating him about a group of people who told him, to his face, that they were going to tear his soul apart for the second time once they had gained his trust, then please. Be my guest.” Loki said with a smirk.

Loki saw Ishida coming towards them and smirked.

“Now, I have spent more than enough time speaking to you all. I hope you all will take my words to heart and re-evaluate your priorities rather quickly.” Loki stated.

“Why?” Chad demanded.

“It’s simple. I am making my rounds through the allies Ichigo surrounded himself with that abandoned him and my next target are the Shinigami. So unless you wish for me to include you all in whatever punishment I will undoubtedly unleash upon them, I would do everything in my power to get back in Ichigo’s good graces and in turn, mine. Good day now.” Loki waved and then disappeared just as Ishida got to them.

Loki landed in the warehouse and was in bed by the time Ichigo walked inside. He took his dinner and said nothing about his meeting with Ichigo’s friends. He would wait and see which of those so-called friends would finally get their heads out of their asses and apologize. If they didn’t, well… Loki would know. He eyed the green band around his finger with a smirk. He had no doubt his little curse on all of their homes had activated and if they wished to stop it, they would need to come begging on hands and knees. Loki smirked.

—sSs—

Later that night, Ishida was alone in his room, struggling to read the textbook before him when he thought he heard a sound. Standing up from his desk, he grabbed his cross, feeling nervous for some reason. Peeking through the crack in his door, his eyes scanned the empty hall. It was very dark and while Ishida couldn’t see anything, he could still hear the faint sound of footsteps.

Pushing the door open, bow in hand, he crept into the hall. His father should still be at the hospital and all the staff had retired for the night hours ago. No one, but him should be in the house. He moved quietly, hoping it was just some teenager who broke in or something. Wouldn’t be the first time. He came to a corner and peeked around to see someone standing in the hall.

“Ok, whoever you are, put your hands up and drop any weapons you have. You are trespassing.” Ishida called as he stepped around the corner.

For a moment, nothing moved, then their head turned and…

Ishida woke up screaming. He threw himself out of his bed, onto the floor and curled up in the corner. His screams alerted the staff that something was wrong and they came rushing to his side, but he was inconsolable. He just kept repeating himself over and over again.

“I’m sorry! I’m sorry!”

Across town, an entire apartment building was awoken by the blood curdling screams coming from Orihime’s and Chad’s apartments.

—sSs—

Loki woke up the next day and felt a little tired. He had probably pushed it too much yesterday and the day before, but it was worth it to take out some people who would have harmed his charge. But now he was on to the next group. Crossing his arms, he thought about his next steps very carefully. Shinigami were something Loki had limited knowledge on. They were considered very minor gods and most other gods did not even count them as that. If he was going to make his distaste known, he would have to also take into consideration that they would not be happy about an actual God showing up.

Not that Loki cared if they got upset. They would never have the power to actually harm him, but he also recognized that he was going to be pushing some buttons that might cause more than a little havoc. He would have to ask Ichigo for more information and what he knew about them. Just as he thought that, Ichigo appeared, looking a bit flustered.

“Hey Loki! You won’t guess who is in the paper today!” Ichigo said as he walked over, newspaper in hand.

“Hm?” Loki said.

“Look!” Ichigo shoved it in his face and his eyes struggled to focus.

When they finally did, he ripped the paper from Ichigo’s hands. On the front page was Thor, of all people!

“WHAT! HOW!” Loki yelled.

“No idea. Apparently, there was some kind of alien invasion in New York City yesterday?” Ichigo said sitting on the bed.

Loki stared at the front page, his mind going a million miles an hour. According to the article, it wasn’t just Thor who had stopped them, but a bunch of people, including a robot, a man with a shield, a man with a bow, a large green thing and a red-haired woman. Loki’s eyes narrowed.

“I thought…?” Loki muttered.

“Loki? Are you ok?” Ichigo asked worriedly.

“Hm? Yes, of course. I was just… startled.” Loki admitted as he put the paper down.

Ichigo’s brow furled with concern.

“I didn’t mean to upset you. I just thought…” Ichigo trailed off.

“You did not upset me. I did not realize Thor was on Midgard. It was a shock to me.” Loki replied, placing a hand on Ichigo’s and patting it.

“I mean, this is a good thing, right?” Ichigo asked.

“Hm? How so?” Loki asked, confused.

“Well, you can speak to him now. Maybe get some of these issues you have with him off your chest and maybe head back home?” Ichigo stated.

Loki blinked. What?

“Oh no, no, no, my dear. I will not be going anywhere near Thor for some time, thank you!” Loki shook his head quickly.

“What? Why?” Ichigo asked, startled.

“Because he will be very upset to see me and I like my head where it is, on my neck.” Loki said, nodding.

Ichigo stared at him long and hard before he shrugged.

“Well, if I was Thor, I would want to know you are alive and well, rather than assuming something horrible happened to you.” Ichigo said.

“He might be better off not knowing I am still alive for a few years. And I will definitely be better off.” Loki said, looking away.

“Loki.” Ichigo called.

Loki winced and slowly looked at him. Ichigo looked very serious with his arms crossed.

“Go see your brother. I think it will go better than you assume it will.” Ichigo stated.

Loki stared at the picture again before sighing deeply and looking down.

“Tomorrow. I will go tomorrow.” Loki muttered.

A hand was placed on his shoulder. Loki glanced at Ichigo.

“You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to, Loki and I will never judge. But if your apologies meant anything, you should say them to him.” With those final words, Ichigo pulled away.

Loki watched him walk away before he looked at the picture again. He could only hope Ichigo was right.

—sSs—

The next day, Loki felt stronger. He also felt well rested and fed (thank you Ichigo). Standing up, Loki stared at his armor and took a deep breath.

“Here we go.” With a snap, his armor was on and then he closed his eyes.

Finding Thor wasn’t hard. His power was unmatched and unable to be copied or duplicated. Loki centered himself, focused on that point and with a turn, he disappeared.

—sSs—

Thor sat on Tony Stark’s couch in his half destroyed tower, munching on some popcorn as he watched the Man of Iron and the Captain argue back and forth. So far, Clint had money on the Captain while Natasha was insisting the Man of Iron was going to win due to stubbornness alone. He wasn’t quite sure where Bruce was nor what they were arguing about, but Thor was deeply enjoying their little squabble when there was a bright flash of light.

All of them were on their feet, weapons at the ready when the light died down and…

“Loki?” Thor whispered, his shock endless.

Loki looked… good? Well rested and fed, which was more than he could say the last time they had spoken (fought). Loki stood there, armor and all before he held out his hands and smirked.

“The one and only. Don’t tell me you’ve forgotten about me, Thor.” Loki said cockily.

Thor’s hand dropped and he attached Mjolnir to his belt before he moved forward.

“Uhhh hey Point Break, you want to explain who that is?” Tony called, but Thor ignored him.

He moved closer to Loki and saw the way Loki’s eyes widened a bit in panic.

“Thor?” the Captain called.

“Now Thor, I know we did not separate under the best circumstances, but I would hope that you could understand why I had to lay low for so long.” Loki was speaking rapidly, clearly nervous and yet Thor said nothing.

Loki swallowed hard as Thor stopped before him. Thor reached out and Loki quickly closed his eyes.

“Loki, you’re alive.” Thor whispered as he pulled Loki into a hug.

Loki squeaked lightly, but seemed startled as Thor placed a hand on the back of his head and pulled him even closer. Thor’s eyes closed as tears ran down his face.

“I thought I had lost you, my dear brother. I thought your face as you fell was the last image I would ever have of you. To see you are alive and well…” Thor choked a bit and buried his face in Loki’s hair.

Loki looked stunned, he seemed like he wanted to speak, but didn’t have the words. Eventually, he wrapped his arms around Thor in turn and closed his eyes.

“Okkkk anyone want to tell me who that is?” Clint asked loudly.

Thor swallowed his tears and pulled back, wiping them.

“Ah, my apologies, my friends! But this! Is my younger brother, Loki!” Thor introduced, keeping an arm around Loki’s shoulders.

“Loki… as in the Norse God of Mischief?” Natasha asked, eyes narrowed.

“The very same!” Thor said brightly.

More than a few of his friends looked uneasy, but Thor turned back to Loki and held him by the arms.

“My Brother! How glorious it is to see you! And how happy I am that you seem well!” Thor said brightly.

“Yes… well. I had a bit of help.” Loki said as he slipped from Thor’s grasp, much to Thor’s dismay.

“How long have you been on Midgard?” Thor asked eagerly.

“A while now… since my fall.” Loki said slowly.

Thor blinked and then blinked again.

“That long? And… you did not reach out to me?” Thor asked.

Loki sighed deeply.

“Thor, we have a lot to discuss, and I would rather not have an audience when we do that.” Loki said, eying his brother’s new friends.

“Right! Right, of course, but you are here now and I would… I would be so honored if you would stay and speak with me. Tell me where you have been, what adventures you have been on, the like.” Thor said eagerly.

Loki sighed and nodded. Tony grumbled that it was actually his tower and that he should be the one inviting people to stay, but it seemed that broke the tension enough that they started putting away their weapons.

“Actually, if you would trust me one last time, there is someone I wish for you to meet.” Loki said, his hand held out.

Thor stared at him and then took his hand.

“Of course. I would be honored to meet this person of your’s.” Thor stated.

“Excellent! In fact, everyone can come along then.” Loki smiled and with a snap, the whole group was teleported.

All the Avengers fell into their battle stances again, freaked out that they had suddenly found themselves in a warehouse. Thor looked around curiously.

“Thor, what the fuck was that! Where are we!” Tony yelled.

“A warehouse in Karakura Town.” Loki said, pulling away from Thor.

“That’s in Japan. Why are we in Japan?” Natasha demanded.

“To meet a friend of mine.” Loki replied.

“A friend…?” Thor muttered, shocked.

“And who the fuck would that be?” the Man of Iron snapped while Steve grumbled about his language.

The door opened then and everyone was tense as an orange haired young man appeared. The young man stood there, stared at them and they stared back at him before he groaned and looked up at the ceiling before looking at Loki.

“Lokiiiii! Again? How many times am I going to walk in here to a random group of people being here! Who did you kidnap this time!” He demanded.

Loki walked over and placed a hand on his shoulder, much to Thor’s shock. Loki directed this young man closer to the group.

“Ichigo, my friend, this is my… brother Thor. Thor, this is Ichigo. He has been watching over me since I landed in Midgard.” Loki said, slightly stumbling on the word “brother”.

The now named Ichigo looked at him and raised an eyebrow.

“So this… is Thor? As in your actual brother Thor?” Ichigo pointed and Thor beamed.

“That I am! Thor, God of Thunder! A pleasure to meet you!” Thor said brightly.

Ichigo’s eyes narrowed at him. He dropped his bag and walked over. He stood before Thor, looked at him up and down before he nodded, reared back and landed a punch to Thor’s cheek. Thor stumbled back as Ichigo cursed and held his fist. All the Avengers plus Loki had their mouths on the floor. Thor had no idea why he had been hit. He had never even met this young man before!

“W-Why did you hit me!” Thor demanded, holding his cheek.

It had been a solid hit actually. He had been knocked off balance and it had caused him to stumble. He was actually quite impressed by this mortal.

“Why did you hit him!” Steve demanded, shocked.

“Because I promised Loki I would! Fuck Loki, you could have told me his face was like a brick wall! I think I broke my hand!” Ichigo yelled, holding his hand.

“You hit me… for Loki?” Thor asked.

“He told me what a shit older brother you were and as an older brother myself, it’s my job to make sure to kick the asses of older brothers who don’t take care of their younger brothers properly. Gods or not, you fucking fall into that category, buddy!” Ichigo snapped, pointing at him.

Thor stared at him before he burst into laughter.

“I like this one, Loki! He’s a good friend!” Thor said pointing.

“Unbelievable.” Tony threw up his hands in exasperation.

“Men.” Natasha muttered.

“Hey.” Steve and Clint said, annoyed.

“Come here and let me see your hand.” Loki demanded as he grabbed Ichigo’s hand.

“Loki, it’s fine. Like I said, if I ever got the chance, I would take it. I follow through on my promises.” Ichigo said, patting him on the shoulder before he headed for the mini fridge.

“Loki, this mortal…?” Thor asked, curiously.

“Just the guy who washed his ass and made sure he didn’t choke on his own vomit when he fell through the ceiling and was in a coma for a month.” Ichigo called before Loki could reply.

Everyone looked up and saw the hole. Thor was alarmed, he quickly grabbed Loki and looked him over.

“You were in a coma and ill? Loki, are you alright?” Thor said, worriedly.

“I am fine, Thor. Ichigo was quite the healer and I am suffering no long term effects.” Loki lied with a sigh.

“You can’t be older than 16. How the hell do you know how to take care of someone in a coma?” Clint asked.

Ichigo turned to him, eyebrow raised.

“My father owns a clinic in town. I learned a lot from him.” Ichigo said as he put some ice on his knuckles.

“Then why are we here and not at your clinic?” Natasha asked.

“Because let me tell you, trying to explain to my father why I was trying to take care of a man in full armor who fell through the ceiling of a warehouse is going to end with us both in the nuthouse.” Ichigo replied.

Ichigo eyed the bed and looked at Loki.

“Can I have my couch back?” Ichigo asked.

Loki rolled his eyes and the bed turned into a rather ugly looking couch. Ichigo sat down and looked around.

“Sooo who are you guys?” Ichigo asked.

The Man of Iron stepped forward and smirked.

“Tony Stark. Iron Man, of course.” Tony said.

Ichigo just stared at him and then looked at the Captain.

“Steve Rogers, Captain America.” Steve said.

“Black Widow. I do not need to hand out my name.” Natasha stated, arms crossed.

“I’m Clint! You can also call me Hawkeye!” Clint said waving.

“Right. Kurosaki Ichigo. Nice to meet you all, I guess.” Ichigo stated.

Thor stepped up and smiled.

“Thank you, Kurosaki Ichigo, for taking care of my brother in his time of need. If you need anything, anything at all, let me know!” Thor said brightly.

Ichigo raised an eyebrow.

“I don’t really need anything.” Ichigo said.

“Ichigo, you are living in a warehouse.” Loki said boredly.

“Wait, you are living here?” The Captain demanded, shocked.

“You said your father owns a clinic in town.” Natasha said, eyes narrowed.

“Loki! I don’t live here! I just don’t get along with my dad, so it’s easier to stay here, but it’s all temporary.” Ichigo shrugged.

“So you live here.” Tony said, arms crossed.

Ichigo huffed.

“I stay when I need to. It’s fine. I am old enough to handle myself.” Ichigo stated.

“And you have done well on your own, but there are several areas where your life can improve.” Loki said.

“Is that why you keep kidnapping people? To make my life better?” Ichigo snarked and Loki smiled.

Thor knew that smile. That was not a good smile. That was a “Loki was up to no good” smile. Thor had been on the receiving end of that smile way too often. He could only hope he was not going to be the victim of that smile this time.

“Should we ask more about the ‘kidnapping people’ thing?” Clint stage whispered to Natasha.

“No.” Natasha replied.

“Ok, listen. Loki, you brought us here for a reason, so just come out with it. I have a very fancy date with some reporter that I planned on being late for, but not this late.” Man of Iron demanded.

“That can wait.” Loki said boredly.

“I mean it can, but Pepper is going to be very upset with me about it.” Tony replied.

“Pepper?” Loki asked, confused.

“Loki, you brought us here all the way from New York City. I assume you needed something more than just this.” Steve stated.

“And I do. I need your help in scaring some Shinigami.” Loki nodded.

“Shinigami? Those minor death gods? They still exist?” Thor asked, baffled.

“You could have shocked me as well, Thor. But Ichigo here is proof.” Loki said.

“I’m sorry, what is a Shinigami?” Clint asked.

“The other name for them would be Grim Reapers.” Natasha said, though she seemed unsure of what to take from this conversation.

“Yes and no. Grim Reapers are their own branch, mainly in what you call the Americas.” Loki replied.

“Loki please focus. Shinigami still exist? I would have thought their own foolishness would have wiped them out centuries ago!” Thor said, rubbing his chin.

“Well, apparently they are keeping themselves alive by allowing children to fight and win their wars for them.” Loki stated.

Thor’s face went from baffled to thunderous. Outside, the sky darkened quickly.

“What?” Thor demanded.

“Oh yes, you see, Ichigo here told me all about how he was dragged into a war between the Shinigami, won said war, and was abandoned afterwards.” Loki said, placing his hand on Ichigo’s shoulder.

Ichigo looked away, looking ashamed and embarrassed. Thor looked between him and Loki before thunder roared outside.

“I cannot believe such a thing. Do they have no honor?!” Thor boomed.

“Apparently not. And certainly no care for those who sacrifice to save the three worlds.” Loki stated.

“Three worlds?” the Captain asked.

“Your Midgard is actually broken down into three separate, but connected worlds; the Living World, the World of the Dead where the Shinigami rule and a middle World where creatures called Hollows live. That is not important right now.” Loki replied.

“It feels important.” Tony grumbled.

Thor turned to Ichigo and locked eyes with him.

“Young man, who did you even get wrapped up in the Shinigami’s nonsense? You are still of the living, correct?” Thor asked.

“It seems they are not playing by those rules either.” Loki replied.

“I am part Shinigami. My father was a captain.” Ichigo stated.

Thor blinked slowly before he groaned and rubbed his eyes.

“They are crossing the boundaries now! Are there any rules they actually follow!” Thor muttered.

“Ok, for those of us who don’t get it?” Clint asked, raising his hand.

“Shinigami are minor gods. There are rules in place that are meant to keep gods and mortals separate for a reason. While gods do cross those lines sometimes, gods connected to death or the reincarnation cycle have stricter rules attached to them.” Loki stated.

“By having children in the Living World, they are blurring the lines between what is living and what is not. It makes things tricky when it comes to the rest of the cycle.” Thor said with a sigh.

“And that’s a bad thing?” the Captain asked.

“How can you have a person who is living, but also dead?” Loki asked.

Steve paused and then made a face.

“Exactly. There are rules!” Thor yelled as the thunder boomed.

“I have so many questions.” Natasha whispered, shaking her head.

“Ok, ok, ok, so we are getting off topic here. Loki, Thor, why do you care?” Tony demanded.

“Hm?” Loki replied.

“If these Shinigami are so minor, like why do you care what they do? Like, you two even said you had no idea they were still around, so what is the matter here?” Tony asked.

“And like, hate to say it, but God of Mischief seems like the type of guy not to follow any rules, soooo?” Clint stressed.

Thor and Loki locked eyes.

“While you are correct, Ichigo here has earned my protection and care. Therefore a slight against him is a slight against me.” Loki stated before he smirked.

“I do not allow slights against my person, so the Shinigami will have to answer for their crimes.” Loki said darkly.

“Ohhhh ok.” Clint said nervously.

The Captain stepped forward and looked at Ichigo.

“And how do you feel about this?” Steve asked.

Ichigo blinked.

“I mean… I don’t know. I didn’t save Loki because I expected anything in return. He was hurt, I was here, that’s about it. To be honest, I expected him to leave as soon as he was healed and never see him again.” Ichigo said, scratching his cheek.

Steve nodded thoughtfully, as if he agreed with the statement.

“Loki, what is your plan? How do you plan on going after these Shinigami? Just say the word and I will be by your side the whole way.” Thor stated, his hand on his hammer.

“Excellent. I have some wonderful ideas then.” Loki smirked.

“Ok, and this is where I step in as the voice of reason. Loki, no.” Ichigo said as he got up and checked his hand.

“And why is that? Why do you insist on worrying about these Shinigami?” Loki demanded.

“Because, damnit, they were my friends, Loki! They weren’t just my allies or my battle buddies or whatever! I cared for them like I cared for my own family!” Ichigo snapped back.

Loki blinked, startled.

“So, I have to assume they had their reasons for what they did. Who the hell knows, maybe they thought they were doing me a favor by leaving me alone after the war, but going after them and making their lives miserable isn’t going to fix the last several months. So to be honest, I would rather you’d leave them alone.” Ichigo finished.

“I see.” Loki muttered.

Ichigo reached out and placed a hand on Loki’s arm.

“Look, I appreciate the roar and thunder (Thor perked up), don’t get me wrong. I appreciate someone being mad on my behalf, but you aren’t going to change them. They have lived long lives and are set in their ways. I know that all too well.” Ichigo patted his arm before pulling back.

Loki stared as Ichigo moved back to the mini fridge and put the ice pack away.

“If you wish for me to leave them alone, I will.” Loki finally said.

Thor was staring at him with wide eyes, looking shocked, but Loki just pressed a finger to his lips and Thor nodded. The Avengers looked at each other, but didn’t say anything either.

“Thank you, Loki. Look, I definitely don’t have enough food to feed everyone here, so please bring them back to New York City and STOP KIDNAPPING PEOPLE.” Ichigo stated.

“As you wish.” Loki stood up.

“It was nice meeting you all.” Ichigo bowed his head.

“A pleasure to meet you as well.” The Captain nodded in return.

“I hope I have the pleasure of seeing you again, young warrior!” Thor boomed.

Ichigo pointed at him and then Loki.

“I expect you two to sit down and talk out whatever shit you have going on or I will do it myself the next time I see you both. You are brothers, act like it. Do I make myself clear?” Ichigo demanded.

“Crystal.” Loki replied.

“We will do so.” Thor nodded.

With a wave, they were back in the tower, making poor Bruce Banner jump with fright as they all appeared out of nowhere.

“JESUS!” Bruce said, hand against his chest.

“Easy there, Brucie Bear! No reason to look green!” Tony said.

Bruce looked around before he sighed deeply.

“I was wondering where you all went… who is that?” Bruce said, pointing.

“Loki.” Loki said sweetly.

Bruce blinked.

“The God of Mischief?” Bruce said confused.

“The very same. Now if you will excuse me, I need to speak with Thor.” Loki grabbed his arm and they were gone.

The Avengers just sighed.

“I have a headache. I need a drink.” Tony said, moving to the kitchen.

“Make it two.” Natasha replied.

—sSs—

They landed in a beautiful valley in Greenland. Standing before each other once more, Thor sighed.

“While I am happy to see you, Loki, I am also conflicted.” Thor said.

Loki looked away, staring off into the distance.

“I cannot say I am not also conflicted.” Loki said sadly.

Thor started to pace.

“I have had… time to think about what happened between us. And I will admit my faults, I was not a good brother, as your young friend said. I was arrogant, I was rude, I was the type of man and warrior I should have never been. I hurt you, I hurt our family, and while I cannot fix those past mistakes, I can only offer to be better in the future, if you will let me.” Thor offered.

Loki glanced at him and then slowly nodded.

“I would… like that. Thor.” Loki said.

Thor beamed and Loki smiled back.

“I will admit my own faults. I was angry and bitter. Once I learned about… that, my rage took me over. My actions were beyond forgiveness and I have no doubt there will be quite a few Asgradians who will never forgive me, but if you are willing to give me a second chance…” Loki trailed off.

“I am, brother.” They grasped arms and for a moment, Loki actually felt lighter.

Like something that had been weighing on his soul had lifted. Relaxing a bit, they released each other and Thor crossed his arms.

“Now, about these Shinigami.”

Chapter Text

“You want me to meet more of Thor’s friends…” Ichigo said the next day.

Ichigo was staring at Loki like he had no idea what was going on inside his head.

“Well, Thor believes it would be… helpful for me to meet with the Warriors Three and Lady Sif to apologize and I think it would be helpful to have someone to cut in when they most certainly try to kill me.” Loki replied.

Ichigo was not impressed based on his facial expression, but sighed and nodded.

“If it will make you feel better. When are they arriving?” Ichigo asked.

A bright beam of light appeared in the middle of the warehouse.

“Ah, I believe that is them.” Loki said standing up.

Ichigo grumbled something under his breath about getting a warning before random people just showed up as the light disappeared.

“Thor, what is it that you wanted to show us…?” Fandral stopped dead.

The Warriors Three, Lady Sif and Thor stood there, staring, as Loki and Ichigo stared back at them.

“Hello, everyone.” Loki said with a small wave.

Immediately, all of them pulled their weapons, looks of hatred and rage came over their faces as they realized what was going on.

“You scoundrel! You still draw breath! After all you have done!” Hogun yelled.

“After how you destroyed our beloved friend Thor’s heart with your cruelty! After what you did to Asgard! I will not let it stand!” Volstagg yelled.

“This day will be your last!” Fandral snarled.

“Wait, my friends, please wait!” Thor stepped between the two groups, his hands up.

“Thor! Move aside so we can finally handle this beast!” Sif demanded.

“Oh dear.” Loki muttered.

“They really don’t like you.” Ichigo said, arms crossed.

“My friends, please give me but a moment! I promise you, I can explain!” Thor begged.

The Warriors Three and Sif looked at each other before they huffed and lowered their weapons.

“If that is what you wish, then we will heed your words… for now.” Sif said calmly, though she glared at Loki over his shoulder.

“Thank you. I promise, there is an explanation.” Thor said with a smile before turning to Loki and Ichigo.

“I have returned, Brother and Friend!” Thor said brightly.

“And brought problems with you.” Ichigo replied boredly.

Thor walked over and grabbed them both before dragging them closer. 

“My friends, this is the young warrior I told you about.” Thor said.

“Wait… this scrawny thing? This was who hit you, Thor?” Volstagg demanded, pointing.

“The very same! Knocked me right off my feet!” Thor nodded.

The Warriors and Sif glanced at each other before breaking into hysterical laughter. Fandral and Hogun held on to each other to keep from falling over. Volstagg held his stomach as he belly laughed. Ichigo scowled darkly, feeling his temper start to flare in annoyance.

“T-Thor! My friend, please! You have always been a jokester, but that was your best one yet!” Volstagg said, wiping his eyes.

“I swear to you, it’s true!” Thor turned to Ichigo.

“Show them how strong you are!” Thor demanded.

“What the fuck am I supposed to do, clothline them? Thor, come on, man! They will snap me in half!” Ichigo said, agasp.

“Yes, Thor, please. Do not make this young man do something so embarrassing. You must have just tripped or something. For there is no way this young man could harm an Asgardian.” Fandral said with a chuckle.

Ichigo’s eyes narrowed. He straightened up and walked over. Eying Fandral, he nodded and reared back, punching him square in the nose and sending him to the floor.  Fandral let out a yell and cradled his nose as Ichigo hissed and shook his hand.

“Do all of you have faces like brick walls!” Ichigo demanded, checking his knuckles.

Volstagg let out a roaring laugh as he pointed at Fandral. Sif covered her mouth with her hand to stifle a laugh as Hogun knelt down next to him and handed him a cloth.

“H-he actually hit me! And I think he broke my nose!” Fandral gasped.

“I told you!” Thor beamed.

“Who is this young man?” Sif asked curiously.

“Name’s Ichigo. Nice to meet you all, I guess?” Ichigo muttered.

Loki waved him over and Ichigo held out his hand. Loki pressed his thumb to the wound and healed it. Ichigo tested it a few times and nodded his thanks.

“Alright, what is the story here? I thought Loki…?” Hogun asked as he helped Fandral up.

“Yes, well, I managed to survive, thank you for your concern.” Loki said boredly.

“Watch your tone, Trickster.” Volstagg said darkly.

“Hey, you watch your tone, Red! Or I will knock you on your ass too.” Ichigo snapped quickly.

The Warriors and Sif stared at him with confusion.

“You are protecting… Loki?” Sif asked.

“Yeah? And?” Ichigo demanded.

“It’s Loki…” Hogun quickly cut himself off when Ichigo glared at him.

“Loki has just as much right to be respected as anyone else in this fucking room. If I hear you talking shit again, I’ll make sure you all have matching noses, got it?” Ichigo demanded.

The four of them nodded, Thor beamed and Loki just shook his head.

“I cannot believe I am being protected by a mortal.” Loki muttered.

Ichigo shot him a look and Loki quickly held his hands up.

“I meant no offense.” Loki said quickly.

“Alright, let’s get this over with. Everyone sit down so we can sort this out.” Ichigo demanded.

Loki’s couch turned bed turned couch turned bed was once more a couch. The Warriors sat on that, taking up the whole thing as Sif sat on the arm rest. Thor, Loki and Ichigo took the other couch Loki created.

“So you survived the fall. Cannot say we are happy to see you.” Sif said, arms crossed.

“I did, thanks to Ichigo. I apparently crashed right through the ceiling and he took care of me.” Loki nodded.

“Why would you do such a thing?” Volstagg asked, curiously.

“It was the right thing to do.” Ichigo shrugged.

“He is a warrior of great honor!” Thor nodded.

“I don’t know about that. Like I said, it's just the right thing to do.” Ichigo muttered.

“And yet, you live… here?” Hogun asked, looking around.

The Warrior Three and Sif glanced around and then looked at him with pity.

“I do not live here! Jesus, is that what everyone is going to get hung up on?” Ichigo groaned.

“You practically live here.” Loki replied.

Ichigo threw his hands up in the air.

“Fine! Ok, fine, I live here!” Ichigo said, exasperated.

“Let us focus on the topic at hand.” Sif cut in.

“Yes, yes, so Loki has survived his fall and wished to make amends. Right Loki?” Thor turned to him and Loki sighed before he got up and bowed.

“I apologize to you all for what I have done. I do hope you will give me a second chance.” Loki said.

The four Asgardians looked at each other and then at Thor.

“Thor…” Fandral trailed off.

“Are you sure you wish to give him another chance?” Sif asked.

Ichigo could see Loki’s jaw clench and scowled.

“Loki and I have spoken, as I stated before. The actions he took were a reaction to some news we received that was… disturbing. While I have not fully forgiven him, I do wish to give our relationship a second chance. If you do not wish to give him that chance, that is fine, but I expect you to treat him with respect.” Thor stated.

Ichigo raised an eyebrow.

“If you all want to act so high and mighty, then tell me, what would you have done? If you found out your whole life was a lie? Because if I had learned that, I can’t say I would have done anything better.” Ichigo demanded.

The Warriors and Sif winced a bit and looked away from his intense gaze.

“Then I don’t think you really have room to hold anything against Loki.” Ichigo finished.

Sif sighed and stood up. She stood before Loki and then bowed back, much to the Warriors’ shock.

“I thank you for your apology and I am willing to give you a second chance.” She stated.

Loki swallowed hard. He seemed shocked that anyone, besides Thor, had agreed to this.

“Thank you.” He muttered.

Volstagg rubbed his chin before glancing at the other two and sighing. He stood up and bowed as well.

“I cannot say I will ever fully trust you, Trickster, but I will give it a second chance, for Thor’s sake. But you only get one more chance with me. If you pull another stunt, I will not let it go again.” Volstagg stated.

Fandral and Hogun glanced at each other before getting up.

“We will also give it another chance.” They said.

When that was done, everyone sat back down and Ichigo nodded. He seemed at least pleased they had agreed to it.

“Alright, with that cleared out of the way, what happens now? Can you just go home?” Ichigo asked, glancing at Loki.

“Hm, possibly? I will still need to speak with… All Father and I do not expect that to go well.” Loki said slowly.

“If you wish, I could speak to him first?” Thor asked.

Loki thought it over and that could work in his favor or could make Odin less likely to listen. You never quite knew what was going to happen with Odin. Loki was going to have to figure it out.

“Thank you, Thor, but I will have to think of what my next steps are. I am sure he will not be happy to even see me.” Loki stated.

“I could punch him, see if that helps.” Ichigo said, shrugging.

“Please stop punching my family members.” Loki replied.

“No promises.” Ichigo stated.

“He has no fear, that one.” Volstagg whispered to Fandral, who nodded.

“Oh, I have plenty of fears, but I don’t let that stop me from getting shit done.” Ichigo said.

“I think that's even more terrifying.” Hogun muttered.

“Did I not tell you, my friends? He is a warrior himself!” Thor stated.

“Yes, you have, but it’s just hard to see that when he is so young.” Fandral stated.

“And clean shaven.” Volstagg nodded.

Loki hummed and with a snap, Ichigo’s shirt disappeared.

“LOKI!” Ichigo yelped.

Their eyes all fell to his scars and Volstagg let out a whistle as he leaned in. Even Thor seemed startled.

“By the Gods, you have some scars there.” Volstagg said.

“You have certainly seen your fair share of battle.” Sif stated.

“I apologize, clearly I underestimated you.” Fandral said.

Ichigo flushed and quickly crossed his arms. He didn’t like how they were looking over his scars, like they were appraising his skill based on how he looked. He made him feel self conscious.

“Yeah…” Ichigo seemed deeply uncomfortable.

“You want to see one of mine? Oh I got this nasty one right on my-“ Volstagg was cut off when everyone in the room yelled “NO!”

“Volstagg, he does not want to see the scar on your ass!” Sif punched him in the shoulder.

“What! Why not!” Volstagg demanded.

“Because no one wants to see that, my friend!” Thor laughed.

Volstagg grumbled as he crossed his arms and sat back in his seat.

“That scar across your chest must have been from a nasty fight.” Fandral stated.

“Wasn’t much of a fight to be honest. The doctor said if it wasn’t for my spine, I would have died. That was the only thing keeping me together.” Ichigo replied.

“What? Keeping you together?” Thor asked, baffled.

Ichigo stood up and showed the matching scar on the back, getting several whistles.

“You were cut right through!” Hogun gasped.

“Yeah well, can I have my shirt back please!” Ichigo demanded.

Loki said nothing, but Ichigo’s shirt dropped onto his head. Scowling, Ichigo flipped him off as he put his shirt back on.

“I apologize for doubting you. You clearly are the warrior Thor claimed you were.” Fandral said.

“It was one war. I didn’t even do that much.” Ichigo grumbled.

Loki slowly turned his head, eyebrow raised.

“I’m sorry, but is it not true that without you, that man would have most certainly destroyed this town and ascended to the next realm, claiming even more power for himself by becoming a God?” Loki demanded.

“Well, I mean yeah, but like that’s all I did.” Ichigo replied.

Loki reached up and rubbed his eyes.

“Ichigo, you saved this entire world from being ripped apart. You sacrificed your very power to stop a madman and you do not think that is a big deal?” Loki asked with a sigh.

Ichigo raised an eyebrow.

“No? I mean, I’m sure any of you would have done it in half the time and without sacrificing anything.” Ichigo said, looking around.

“Oh, I doubt that very much.” Thor said thoughtfully.

“Huh?” Ichigo asked.

“Loki told me all about this Aizen character and if he is on the level Loki described, I believe most of us would have had trouble handling him. As stated before, the fact that you fought him and won is quite the feat.” Thor said.

“Wait, where did you find more information about Aizen? I don’t remember telling you that much about him.” Ichigo asked, looking at Loki.

“I did a bit of research.” Loki lied.

He realized at that moment he had forgotten to tell Ichigo about his talk with his mentors, but he was not about to say that in front of Thor and his friends. Ichigo’s eyes narrowed, but seemed to accept that answer.

“Righttt.” Ichigo muttered.

Loki just smiled sweetly.

“I hate when he does that.” Fandral muttered as Hogun nodded.

“But wait, my friends, wait until you hear this.” Thor leaned in.

His friends leaned in too and Ichigo had to stop himself from making a comment about them looking like gossiping schoolgirls. The last thing he wanted to do was offend them.

“The Shinigami? Those minor gods? They still exist!” Thor stated.

“What?” Sif asked, confused.

“Nooo!” Fandral gasped.

“I thought they were wiped out years ago!” Volstagg said in awe.

“Not only do they still exist, but they are not following the laws the All Father put in place. Ichigo here is part Shinigami.” Thor said, thumping Ichigo on the back.

Ichigo let out a “oof” and scowled at Thor in annoyance. All four of them stared at him, mouths hanging open.

“Are they mad!” Sif gasped.

“Surely they know better than to go against the All Father!” Volstagg demanded.

“Apparently not.” Loki stated.

“I cannot believe this. How could they be so daft?” Hogun asked.

“Perhaps they have forgotten? They must have.” Fandral stated.

“If they have forgotten, then they need to be reminded.” Thor nodded.

Ichigo crossed his arms.

“I thought I told you to leave them alone?” Ichigo demanded, looking at Loki.

“Who me? Why, I am going to leave them alone!” Loki stated.

“I sense there is a “but” at the end of that sentence.” Ichigo said, eyes narrowed.

Loki smiled and Ichigo scowled before he looked at Thor.

“Thor, can’t you do something?” Ichigo demanded.

Thor raised an eyebrow.

“I fail to see how you think I have any control over what Loki does.” Thor stated.

“You’re right. I expected too much.” Ichigo rubbed his eyes.

“I promise you, Ichigo, I have no plans to harm, maim or kill any of the Shinigami.” Loki said with a smile.

“I wish that made me feel better, but it really doesn’t.” Ichigo grumbled.

“Do not worry, my new friend! I am simply going to make sure they remember the laws that the All Father gave them centuries ago. I am sure once I speak to them, we can get this all cleared up.” Thor said.

“And I am going there simply to help him get there. That is all. Promise.” Loki said sweetly.

Ichigo looked between them.

“Ok, and what am I supposed to do? Stay here?” Ichigo asked.

“You will be here with the Warriors Three and Lady Sif! I am sure they have plenty of stories to tell you to pass the time while we are gone!” Thor said as he and Loki got up.

“Stories to tell me? Thor, I’m not seven!” Ichigo yelled, but Volstagg just reached over and grasped his shoulder.

“Do not worry! Just leave it to Thor and the Trickster! Now about that scar on my-” Volstagg was cut off.

“NO ONE WANTS TO HEAR ABOUT IT!” Sif’s yell was the last thing Thor and Loki heard before they disappeared.

—sSs—

Urahara eyed the sword before him with a frown before he sighed and rubbed his forehead. So far it was stable, which was more than he could say for the last ones. But even still, he was afraid to get his hopes up, just to watch them get dashed against the rocks again when it broke. A knock came to the door and Urahara looked up.

“They are here.” Yoruichi said.

Urahara nodded and got up. He followed her to the sitting room and mentally winced. Ishida, Orihime and Chad all sat at the table, looking pale and miserable. The dark circles under their eyes didn’t help.

“Oh my, don’t you all look awful!” Urahara said as he put his fan before his mouth as he sat down.

“We met Loki.” Ishida said, his hand reaching up to adjust his glasses.

Urahara winced.

“Oh dear. I assume he was not happy with you?” Urahara asked.

The three of them just stared at him and he nodded.

“Well, unfortunately, we were all in the wrong.” Urahara said.

“W-We were just trying to help Kurosaki-san.” Orihime’s voice trembled.

“Help Ichigo… or help yourselves?” Yoruichi demanded from the doorway.

“What does that mean!” Ishida snapped, his lack of sleep clearly getting to him.

“You were terrified of him when you came back from Hueco Mundo.” Yoruichi said, her arms crossed.

Ishida flinched and looked down. Chad, who hadn’t been there, looked at him in confusion.

“I-I wasn’t scared of him.” Ishida said softly.

“You were scared of his hollow.” Urahara said.

“Well, can you blame me! You didn’t even see him! He was a monster!” Ishida snapped.

Orihime whimpered as Chad’s mouth dropped open. Urahara and Yoruichi glanced at each other.

“You forget who trained him.” Yoruichi stated.

Ishida blinked. 

“So you knew what he was capable of?” Ishida asked.

“Of course.” Urahara nodded.

“Then why didn’t you warn us! Orihime and I were almost killed!” Ishida demanded.

“Ichigo would have never killed you or Orihime. Don’t say that” Chad said coldly.

“Well, that wasn’t Kurosaki! That was some mindless beast!” Ishida replied hotly.

“Ishida-kun, Sado-kun, please.” Orihime begged.

“Ichigo would have NEVER killed either of you.” Chad snapped.

“Yeah, well, you weren’t there, so what do you know! Where even were you! Certainly not helping us!” Ishida yelled.

“I was trying! Not all of us have trained since they were a child to use their abilities!” Chad yelled back.

“Please stop!” Orihime begged, covering her ears with her hands.

“Not trying hard enough! Did you even kill any of the arrancar? Because I did!” Ishida demanded.

There was a loud bang and they stopped, looking at Urahara, who had slammed his fan on the table.

“Enough.” Urahara said coldly.

The three of them shivered under his gaze before he pulled his fan back.

“Ishida-san, I apologize, but you are wrong.” Urahara said.

Ishida looked taken aback.

“You keep saying that hollow is not Kurosaki-san, but it is. It’s a part of him. So when you call his hollow a “beast” and a “monster”, you are also calling Kurosaki-san those things.” Urahara stated.

Ishida stared at him before he looked away with a scowl.

“Then, maybe he is.” Ishida stated.

Chad shot to his feet before grabbing Ishida and slamming him against the wall. Orihime screamed.

“Take. That. Back.” Chad hissed, his arms changing.

Ishida glared at him.

“TAKE IT BACK!” Chad roared.

“I reject!” Orihime’s shield came between them and forced Chad away.

“Orihime!” Chad snapped.

“STOP! STOP! STOP!” she screamed.

“ENOUGH!” Yoruichi’s power slammed into all three of them and they stopped.

She was standing, her arms crossed with a scowl on her face.

“Is this how his friends act! Is this what Ichigo fought to protect! You three sicken me!” Yoruichi spat.

“Yoruichi-” Urahara tried to cut in.

“Shut up!” she snapped.

He held up his hands before reaching for his tea and taking a long sip. She turned back to them.

“I have sat here, listening to you all talk about how scared you were of him, do any of you think that he wasn’t scared? That he wasn’t afraid?” Yoruichi demanded.

They stared at her.

“Ichigo went to Hueco Mundo for you, Orihime. No one else. For you. He went there having no idea if he would live or die. Having no idea what he was about to face down, but he did it. For. You. And now you sit here, sniffling and sobbing about how scared you are of him?” Yoruichi demanded.

Orihime choked on a sob and covered her face with her hands. Yoruichi turned to Chad and Ishida.

“And you two, are you kidding me? Are you seriously kidding me? Chad, you haven’t spoken to Ichigo in months, so don’t sit here, acting like you are protecting him when you haven’t.” Yoruichi stated.

Chad looked away with shame.

“And you Ishida. I get it ok? You hate hollows and you hate Shinigami. Ichigo is both, but Jesus Christ, he has saved your ass more times than I can count! So you sitting here, acting all superior when, newsflash, you wouldn’t even still be alive without him. So take your pride and shove it!” Yoruichi stated.

Ishida scowled and looked away. Yoruichi sighed deeply.

“I have no right to talk either.” she shook her head and sat down.

“We all failed him. But we can make it up to him. I have been working to return his powers. I believe it might finally be finished, but I still need time.” Urahara muttered.

“Until then, we need you to keep an eye on Ichigo.” Yoruichi demanded.

The three of them looked at each other and then at them before nodding.

“We will.” Orihime promised.

Chapter Text

Shinji wasn’t sure what was more boring; standing in a Captain’s meeting, listening to them talk about fucking Hollow levels in the Living World or watching paint dry. He was pretty sure watching paint dry was slightly more entertaining. He would have to test it out some time.

“Thank you, Captain Ukitake.” The Captain Commander stated.

Shinji watched him step back into line and then glanced around. Was that it for today? Please dear god, let that be it.

“Does anyone else have any reports or concerns to speak of? If not, I will dismiss this meeting.” The Commander said.

Shinji was hopeful no one would say anything, that he could finally go and get some lunch, when a voice spoke up.

“Actually, I have something to speak of, if I may have the floor.” An unfamiliar voice stated.

There was a bright flash of light and suddenly, a man in full armor with a horned helmet stood before them. All Captains went for their blades, bodies tense as they all registered this random man suddenly standing in their meeting room.

“The hell is this now?” Kenpachi asked.

The man smiled and Shinji’s whole body locked up.

“I-I can’t move!” Soi Fong hissed.

“I can’t either.” Shunsui stated.

“Who are you? I demand you state your name!” The Commander yelled.

“Who? Me? Why, my name is Loki. A pleasure, I am sure.” The man, Loki, said with a dramatic bow.

“Loki?” Shinji muttered.

“The Norse God of Mischief?” Mayuri asked, curiously.

“The very same! My, how wonderful it is to see that you Shinigami are no longer just rolling around in your own filth. You’ve actually managed to evolve enough to have a society! Congratulations!” Loki mocked cruelly, even going so far as to politely clap.

The Commander looked like he was about to reply, but held himself back.

“Why are you here?” Byakuya demanded.

Loki glanced around, locking eyes with each and every captain, his face carefully blank before he landed on The Commander again.

“I have seen many cultures and societies rise and fall over my long, long life. Some have broken down due to their own stupidity. Some have been wiped out by other, stronger societies. But most are taken down from the inside by someone trusted, someone beloved and believed in.” Loki stated.

Shinji looked around and tried to stop his snort. The look of rage and hatred on so many of the captain’s faces was actually kind of funny. They knew he was mocking them and could do nothing about it without insulting a god of higher power.

“State what you want.” The Commander demanded again.

“I’m getting there, be patient.” Loki replied.

He waved his hand and his helmet disappeared. He glanced around again before smiling.

“You know, for a society who prides itself on honor and tradition, you certainly do not practice what you preach.” Loki stated.

“What do you mean by that?” The Commander asked.

“Well, you will be interested to know I met a lovely young man recently… in Karakura Town.” Loki said darkly.

The way every face fell was amazing to watch. Shinji wondered what kind of sick fucking karma this was.

“Kurosaki?” Byakuya muttered.

Loki’s eyes snapped to him and his smile became razor sharp.

“The very same. He helped me in a rather dangerous situation, something I have been told he did for you all as well.” Loki stated.

“Enough of this nonsense. State your business with us.” The Commander stated.

Loki’s smile died and his eyes narrowed.

“If you are not willing to simply be quiet and listen, then I will make it easier for you to do so.” Loki hissed coldly.

With a wave of his hand, every Shinigami’s mouth was stitched shut. Shock and terror crossed the faces of his fellow captains as they realized now, they could no longer move or speak. They were utterly helpless in front of a God.

“Much better! Now where was I?” Loki tapped his chin thoughtfully before he glanced around.

“Ah yes!” Loki said with a nod before he straightened his back.

“Of course, I am not someone who can lecture you all on “morals” or “honor”. I am not that kind of God, but I do know someone who can!” Loki smirked before he turned his head.

“Oh Thor!” Loki called.

Outside, the sky darkened and there was a loud boom before a huge crash. When Shinji opened his eyes, there was now a hole in the ceiling and a second man standing before them.

“You called, Oh Brother of Mine?” the blonde-haired man said.

“Ah yes, Thor, there you are.” Loki nodded as everyone looked at each other, puzzled.

“Thor, these are the Shinigami I told you about.” Loki waved his hand.

Thor hummed and walked towards them, his long cape fluttering in a wind no one could feel.

“This is them? They are… not what I had expected.” Thor said, sounding bored.

“Certainly not what I expected either. They are truly… disappointing.” Loki said, hands clasped behind his back.

Thor ran his eyes over them before they locked with The Commander’s.

“I am assuming you are the one in charge?” Thor pointed.

The Commander just glared at him, unable to speak and Thor nodded as if he had replied.

“I am Thor, God of Thunder and Son of Odin, the All Father. I have come here at the request of my brother, Loki, after some disturbing information came to our attention. Tell me, is it true you are using children for your wars?” Thor demanded.

The Commander huffed, but couldn’t reply still. Thor raised an eyebrow.

“Are you going to answer my accusations or just stand there?” Thor demanded.

“Oh dear. I fear that was my fault, Brother. Allow me.” Loki snapped his fingers and the stitches disappeared from The Commander’s mouth.

“I hear your accusation, Sons of Odin, and reject it completely. We Shinigami have never used children for our wars. Kurosaki Ichigo involved himself in a war that had nothing to do with him. He put himself in that situation. End of story.” The Commander replied.

Thunder boomed loudly outside, making a few captains shudder. Thor’s eyes were narrowed with disgust as Loki openly sneered.

“Funny how we never said his name, but you knew immediately who we were talking about. A guilty conscience perhaps?” Loki asked.

“You are placing the blame for your failed actions… on a child? Is this what I am hearing?” Thor demanded.

“As I said-“ The Commander was cut off when thunder boomed again, so loud it shook the walls.

“You might want to try saying that differently.” Loki mocked, but Thor held up his hand.

“No, brother, let him try and explain this nonsense. Let him try to justify his actions, so I may return to the All Father and speak to him about it.” Thor stated.

Loki blinked, startled, but went silent. Huh, he hadn’t planned on actually bringing Odin into this, just using Thor and his name as a threat, but it could work out.

“I have no fear of your All Father, Son of Odin. We Shinigami have been removed from your system for a very long time. We no longer listen to his rules and laws.” The Commander stated boldly.

Thor and Loki slowly looked at each other and then looked at The Commander like he had lost his damn mind.

“Oh Loki, he’s mad.” Thor muttered, almost sadly.

“Mad is one thing to call it.” Loki replied.

“I am not mad!” The Commander snapped.

“Well, there is no way you are sane and just said that. The All Father controls the whole Nine Realms, you fool. Midgard, the world you inhabit, is a part of that.” Thor said, arms crossed.

“That has nothing to do with us. We run by our own laws.” The Commander stated.

“You only EXIST because the All Father thought you were amusing enough to keep around and nothing more! Do not think of yourself as better than the All Father or I will have to put you into place myself!” Thor boomed.

The Commander stared him down and Thor looked like he was one second away from swinging, so Loki coughed lightly.

“We are here because you have gone against the laws that were agreed to thousands of years ago, one of which is simple and easy to understand: children do not belong on the battlefield. I do not care if you believe he put himself there or not. Children do not belong on the battlefield, period. So, unless you have a better explanation for why he was there, you have broken this law and will have to face justice for your dishonorable actions.” Loki explained.

“How dare you call us dishonorable! You know nothing of the word!” The Commander replied.

“Oh, you are most certainly correct. I do not. Thor, however…” Loki stepped aside and Thor stepped forward.

“If you insist on claiming that your actions were honorable, then we demand you all come to Asgard so you may face judgment for it.” Thor demanded.

“We will do no such thing.” The Commander replied.

“Then I will decide right here and now that you Shinigami have gone against the laws you agreed to, gone against the All Father and the Nine Realms with your insolence!” Thor yelled.

“And in that case, then you no longer have a right to stay on Midgard. So you will have to leave… or be wiped out.” Loki stated, a dagger twirling between his fingers.

“You believe you are enough?” The Commander asked with a scuff.

“We two alone? Probably, but what fun would that be?” Loki smiled at the same time as Thor.

“We will return to Asgard and if you could not handle your last war, you certainly will not be able to handle Asgard in all its glory coming down upon your heads.” Thor stated.

“It will be a massacre.” Loki nodded.

“There will be no Shinigami left alive.” Thor agreed.

“Your hundreds of souls will have nothing on the thousands of Asgardian warriors who live and breathe battle.” Loki continued.

“If you last more than one day, I will be surprised.” Thor said, nodding.

“Enough! We will not be threatened by the likes of you!” The Commander yelled.

At this point, Shinji had had enough. This was going from bad to worse and Shinji was not about to be dragged into something like a second war because the Captain Commander was an idiot. He wiggled a bit and Loki looked at him.

“Do you have something to say?” Loki asked and Shinji let out a muffled “hm!”

With a wave, Loki released Shinji’s mouth and body. He gasped as he stumbled a bit, his legs sore from standing before he coughed.

“Alright, if I may cut in.” Shinji said.

“And you are?” Loki asked.

“Captain of the Fifth, Hirako Shinji, at your service.” Shinji stated, bowing.

“Very well, and what is it you have to say?” Thor asked.

“So, despite the robe I’m wearing, my loyalty is with Ichi-berry. That kid saved our asses and we owe him a lot. Which means, you can count me out, I won’t be fighting for the Shinigami if that means fighting against the kid.” Shinji stated.

“Captain Hirako!” The Commander boomed.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah, get over yourself. I told you that during the war and after it too. The only reason I even accepted this robe was to protect my people, that included the kid. So don’t act shocked. I would throw your asses under the bus in a heartbeat to protect me and mine.” Shinji snapped.

The Commander looked like he wanted to cut Shinji down where he stood. A few other captains seemed uncertain of what to think or do.

“Ah, you are one of those Visoreds Ichigo told me about.” Loki said.

Shinji smirked.

“Aw, the kid talked about us?” Shinji asked.

“He did. He said you were all insane. But that you were also his mentors and that he missed you. He was quite upset by the lack of communication in the most recent months.” Loki’s eyes narrowed.

Shinji winced and rubbed the back of his neck.

“Yeahhh that wasn’t my best idea. I will reach out to him.” Shinji said.

“I am sure he would appreciate it. Is there anyone else in the room that you claim as your’s?” Loki asked.

Shinji pointed to Rose and Kensei. Loki snapped and the two of them were released as well. Kensei stretched as Rose rubbed his neck.

“Is our kid ok?” Kensei demanded.

“He could be doing better if he had his allies by his side, protecting him, rather than letting him be hunted down by those hollow monsters like a tasty snack.” Loki stated.

“Wait, what! Ukitake, isn’t your division keeping an eye on the town!” Kensei snapped, looking at the other white-haired man.

Ukitake blinked in confusion. Loki, curious to what was going on, released his mouth only.

“Well, yes, of course. I have two different division members in the town.” Ukitake replied.

“Is that so? Because I have been living in that town for over a month. I have never seen nor felt any Shinigami in the area besides the ones called Urahara Kisuke and Shihoin Yoruichi. Meanwhile, I have saved that boy from three different Hollows of various power levels. The only people I have ever seen doing any kind of patrol were a young man with a bow. So forgive me, but I believe your division members are not up to par.” Loki stated.

Ukitake looked shocked.

“You need to check your reports again, Ukitake.” Kensei said.

“So it seems.” Ukitake muttered.

“Enough of this!” The Commander cut in.

Loki and Thor locked eyes. How dramatic and that was coming from them.

“You have insulted us enough with your words and actions! I will not stand here and be called dishonorable when we, the Gotei 13, have been the only thing standing between certain destruction of the three worlds for centuries!” The Commander boomed.

“And yet you still let a child fight and win a war for you, so really how good were you at your job?” Loki asked curiously.

The Commander’s cane turned into his blade and Loki felt the air start to heat up.

“I will not listen to another moment of this.” The Commander replied.

“Then I agree. No more talking, that is clearly not working. So it is time for action.” Thor said, grabbing his hammer.

“Thor. You promised Ichigo you would not harm the Shinigami.” Loki stated.

“Oh no, Loki, YOU promised, remember? I did no such thing.” Thor replied, wagging his finger.

“Is that so? Well, would you look at that, you are right!” Loki said with a sharp grin.

Thor grinned back. Shinji looked between them before he stepped in between.

“Ok, ok, before you two start throwing fists or whatever, can someone take me to see the kid?” Shinji asked.

“Captain Hirako, you are not to go anywhere near that monstrous hybrid!” The Commander yelled before Loki could reply.

Shinji paused and then slowly turned, his eyes dark. Loki and Thor glanced at each other, startled. Monstrous hybrid? The hell did that mean?

“I’m sorry, you wanna fucking run that by me again?” Shinji asked coldly.

Kensei and Rose were over his shoulder, glaring at The Commander. The tension in the room was so heavy you could cut it with a zanpakuto.

“Kurosaki Ichigo is an illegal hybrid. The only reason he was not executed after the war was because Urahara Kisuke swore he would keep the hybrid in line and that is all. Be aware, Captain Hirako, that Kurosaki Ichigo only lives by my grace and my grace can be removed just as quickly.” The Commander replied.

Shinji’s head slowly tilted to the side. For a moment, the air became heavy with the feeling of hollow energy. Some of the captains were looking a little weak.

“If you ever, EVER, threaten Ichi-berry in our presence again, you won’t have to worry about the Asgardians because I will make sure that the Visoreds come here and show Soul Society what we were doing the last hundred years we were on the run from your execution order.” Shinji said coldly.

“We may have agreed to come back, but we never forgave and forgot the injustice that happened against us.” Rose stated.

“And Soul Society can’t afford to have us as enemies.” Kensei crossed his arms.

“My, it seems there are cracks in your perfect Gotei 13, Commander. Perhaps you should be more careful with your words.” Loki said, mockingly.

“If your own warriors are turning against you, then it seems you have lost your way.” Thor stated.

“I have lost NOTHING!” The Commander replied hotly.

The air was heavy with tension and power as The Commander and the Visoreds glared at each other. Loki was pretty sure he had never had so much fun. Of course, at that moment, Thor stepped forward and coughed, ruining it.

“I have heard enough! Captain Commander of Soul Society, you have admitted to going against the laws that the All Father put into place eons ago. You have admitted to using and abusing a child, even going so far as to threaten his execution! I will not stand for this a moment more! You WILL face Asgardian justice and you will be brought before the All Father, whether you like it or not! Loki, I leave that to you.” Thor’s voice boomed.

Before anyone could say anything, Loki grinned wickedly.

“As you wish, Brother.” Loki clapped his hands and Captain Commander was encased in crystal.

“Oh, that’s one way to do it.” Shinji muttered.

“It’s the easiest way, I promise you.” Loki replied.

Thor huffed and shook his head, his arms crossed.

“I never could have imagined what we would deal with when coming here.” Thor muttered.

Loki placed a hand on his shoulder.

“But I believe you dealt with it rather well.” Loki stated.

Thor glanced at him and smiled before he looked around.

“I need more information if we are to speak with the All Father. Loki, please release the rest of them.” Thor asked.

Loki snapped and the rest of the captains were released. Ukitake fell to his knees, feeling dizzy and weak. Shunsui quickly came to his side as did Unohana to check on him, but never truly took their eyes off the Gods before them.

“What a mess.” Shunsui sighed deeply.

Byakuya turned to the two gods with seriousness.

“I am Byakuya Kuchiki. The head of the Kuchiki Clan, one of the Four Great Clans of Soul Society and the Captain of the Sixth Division.” Byakuya started, only to be cut off.

“Ahhh, so you are the older brother Ichigo was telling me about. Tell me, how is Rukia doing?” Loki asked.

Byakuya blinked slowly.

“She is well…” Byakuya replied uncertainly.

“Excellent. Ichigo will be pleased to know his dear friend’s older brother stepped up after all.” Loki said.

“So did Ichigo hit you too? Because he got me right in the cheek! A rather powerful blow for one so young!” Thor said with a laugh.

Byakuya stared at him before sighing.

“While he did not hit me, we did fight and in the end, he won against me, proving that his convictions were stronger than my own.” Byakuya admitted.

“He fought most of us here. Heh, the kid knows how to leave an impression.” Kenpachi cackled.

“Is he doing alright?” Toshiro asked, somewhat concerned.

“He would be better if his allies had stayed by his side during such a trying time. Losing one’s power and in turn his whole identity was not easy. Especially to one so young and still growing.” Loki said.

Toshiro winced and nodded.

“We wished to, but after the war, there was quite a bit of work we had to handle. I fear most of us got wrapped up in our own lives and lost track of time.” Byakuya sighed.

“Excuses are just that, Captain, excuses.” Thor stated.

Byakuya nodded thoughtfully. Soi Fong was staring them down with annoyance. Mayuri was staring at them like he wanted to dissect them. Sajin seemed uncertain of what to do, standing with his arms crossed as he looked around. Shinji turned to Loki.

“I want to see Ichi-berry. Can you make that happen? We aren’t allowed to use the Senkaikon.” Shinji asked.

“I will have to speak with him first. I do not wish to put him in a situation like this without making sure he is ready for it.” Loki stated.

Shinji nodded, though seemed sad.

“I will take any time the kid gives us.” Shinji agreed.

“I would also like to see him. For Rukia’s sake, of course.” Byakuya stated.

Loki raised an eyebrow at the partial lie, but left it alone.

“I will speak with Ichigo and see how he feels about visitors, but do not be shocked if he refuses.” Loki said.

“We will accept that.” Byakuya nodded.

“Good. Now, I expect you all to go through your divisions, get your affairs in order and be ready for when we return. We may call upon you as witnesses.” Loki demanded.

“And if we find out that any of you try to free the Captain Commander.” Thor said, his hand on his hammer.

“We understand. This room will be sealed once we leave. No one will be allowed in or out until your return.” Shunsui said, nodding.

Loki eyed him and hummed. If they needed a new Commander, Loki would have to keep this one in mind. He seemed like an old soul, but also smart and cunning. He would be a good replacement should they need one.

“Excellent. We will return shortly. Good day.” Loki placed a hand on Thor’s shoulder and they disappeared.

When the gods left, several of the captains let out a sigh and then looked at each other. They then turned to The Commander and stared.

—sSs—

They landed in the warehouse, making the Warriors Three, Sif and Ichigo jump.

“Loki? Thor? You’re back?” Ichigo said as he stood up.

“Welcome back!” Volstagg said.

“I hope all went well?” Hogun asked, looking between them.

Thor and Loki shared a look before they both sighed deeply.

“Oh.” Hogun muttered, disheartened.

“Is everything ok?” Ichigo asked worriedly.

“The Captain Commander is mad.” Thor sighed, rubbing his eyes.

“Mad? As in crazy?” Ichigo asked, confused.

“Correct. The Captain Commander…his actions are gravely concerning to us. I have decided to bring him before the All Father to stand trial.” Thor stated.

The Warriors and Sif gasped.

“Are you sure?” Sif asked.

“I thought you were just using that as a bluff!” Fandral said.

“Unfortunately, yes. It must be done.” Thor nodded.

“I see… will he lose his position?” Ichigo asked.

Loki turned to Ichigo.

“That would be the best-case scenario, truly. The worst case is he would be imprisoned for his crimes for the rest of his life.” Loki explained.

“Imprisoned?” Ichigo seemed uncertain.

“Ichigo, I must make this clear, the Captain Commander told us, without any care or concern, that he would have had you executed after the war for being, as he put it, “an illegal monstrous hybrid” if someone had not begged for your life.” Loki stated.

Ichigo’s eyes widened in horror. He took a step back and fell onto the couch as Loki placed a hand on his shoulder. Ichigo was stunned to silence. The Warriors and Sif looked pissed.

“Executed? For what? Existing!” Sif demanded hotly.

“That, among other statements he made, has given us cause for concern. We decided that he must be brought before the All Father immediately.” Thor said.

“That is most concerning.” Fandral rubbed his chin.

“If that is what you believe is best, just say the word and we will be by your side when you gather him.” Volstagg nodded.

“Do you believe others will step in the way?” Hogun asked.

“Perhaps one or two, but we also met some captains who stated their loyalty is to Ichigo and not Soul Society. That should there be a war between Asgard and Soul Society, that they would stand on whatever side Ichigo was on.” Loki said.

“You mean Shinji and the others?” Ichigo asked.

“Yes, they were quite furious on your behalf. I thought the one called Shinji was going to rip out The Commander’s throat for his insolence and disregard for your life.” Thor chuckled.

“Really? Oh.” Ichigo muttered.

Loki hummed and felt the way Ichigo shuddered.

“They spoke to us. Asked to come see you. I would not be shocked if they reach out soon enough.” Loki muttered to him.

“I see. I don’t know… how to feel.” Ichigo sighed, rubbing his face.

“Allow yourself to process. We will speak more later in private.” Loki said and Ichigo nodded.

Thor was staring at Loki and Ichigo with something akin to pride. The Warriors and Sif were actually quite amazed by his actions too, but said nothing.

“Are you going to speak to the All Father first?” Sif asked.

“Yes, those are my next steps. I can only hope he is willing to listen.” Thor admitted.

Everyone in the room winced. Odin could be very stubborn when he wanted to be and that was most of the time. Getting him to listen was almost as hard as getting him to see reason when he thought he was right.

“And I believe it would be best if Loki came with me.” Thor said.

Loki blinked and then sighed. He supposed two birds, one stone was the way Thor wanted to go.

“Are you sure that’s safe for Loki?” Ichigo asked.

“I believe All Father will have questions I cannot answer. It would be best for Loki to be there to explain.” Thor said.

Ichigo didn’t seem to really like that idea too much. He glanced at Loki with clear concern.

“I just… I don’t know.” Ichigo said, shaking his head.

“Then do you wish to come with us as well?” Thor asked.

Ichigo’s eyes got wide.

“Come with you? To Asgard? I mean, is that ok?” Ichigo asked, looking between all of them

“I was actually going to suggest the same thing.” Loki nodded.

“Oh.” Ichigo muttered.

Loki glanced at him.

“I would feel more comfortable with you close by, especially since we have learned that the Shinigami are not watching over this town like they should be.” Loki said.

“Wait, so they really DID leave it up to my friends?” Ichigo demanded hotly.

“The one with long white hair claimed there were two Shinigami stationed in town, but I have yet to see or feel them.” Loki stated.

“Huh, I vaguely remember one guy during the war but…?” Ichigo rubbed the back of his head.

“We will worry about that in a moment. Now, will you come with us?” Thor asked.

“Oh yes, please do!” Volstagg begged.

“And why do you want me to come?” Ichigo asked.

“I wish to see if you can knock out other Asagardians with your punch, that’s all.” Volstagg said, pressing his hands together in a plea.

“One track mind, that one.” Loki muttered as Ichigo snorted.

“Fine. I mean if you want me to come, then let’s do it.” Ichigo said, standing up.

“Excellent! Let’s go right now!” Thor grabbed Ichigo and Loki into a hug.

Ichigo and Loki shared a suffering look as Thor dragged them to where the others stood. When all of them were standing together, there was a bright light and they were gone.

—sSs—

Urahara eyed the sword and blinked. No cracks? No errors? Had he… had he done it? Was it finally finished? A check of his data said yes. The sword was finished. He let out a long, deep sigh as he rubbed his mouth. He had done it! He had finally done it! A wave of relief came over him just as the door slammed open.

“Ichigo is gone.” Yoruichi declared.

Good feeling’s gone.

Chapter Text

Ichigo opened his eyes when he felt his feet hit the ground. With a gasp, he looked around.

“Whoa.” Ichigo muttered.

“Welcome, Kurosaki Ichigo.” Heimdall stated.

Ichigo jumped a bit before he blinked.

“Uh, hi. Nice to meet you.” Ichigo muttered, bowing slightly.

“Heimdall.” Loki nodded to him.

Heimdall stared at him, but nodded back.

“Come, let us go!” Thor boomed.

Ichigo was brought on to the Rainbow Bridge, where he looked around with amazement.

“Beautiful, is it not?” Sif asked as they walked.

“Yes, it’s wonderful.” Ichigo muttered.

“A kingdom of gold and power! Ah, there is nothing like home!” Fandral said with a smile.

Ichigo glanced at Loki, who seemed strangely quiet. Loki was staring at the abyss beyond the bridge, looking nervous. Ichigo slowed so he could walk by Loki.

“This is where you fell, huh?” Ichigo asked softly.

Loki blinked, startled, but nodded softly. Ichigo nodded back thoughtfully and grabbed his arm. 

“Do you mind holding on to me? I’m a bit nervous on a bridge like this.” Ichigo stated out loud so the others could hear.

Loki was confused for a moment, but quickly realized his plan and was thankful for it.

“Yes, of course.” Loki agreed.

Now, Loki wasn’t a fool nor was he someone who felt the urge to be close to someone, but it was a bit comforting to hold on to someone on the bridge as they crossed. He had not realized just being on the bridge would bring back such painful and terrifying memories. He knew he had to be strong, but it was difficult, so holding on to Ichigo made it just a bit easier. They made it across the bridge, where more than a few Asgardians did a double take when they saw Loki and then Ichigo. Loki released Ichigo’s arm as soon as they were on stable ground.

“Just keep walking.” Thor said as people started to gather.

Ichigo stayed by Loki’s side, his default glare and scowl on full force. Loki wasn’t sure if Ichigo actually thought it was going to work, or if that was just how he reacted in situations he didn’t feel comfortable in. Though he did notice a few Asgardians glancing away once they met Ichigo’s glare. As they got to the castle, Loki stopped when he saw who stood at the doors.

“Mother.” Thor muttered.

Frigga, in all her glory, smiled. Behind her were a few handmaidens, who whispered between themselves, looking uncertain.

“Welcome back, my sons.” Frigga said.

Loki swallowed hard. Sons? As in…? Loki didn’t have time to process more before Ichigo physically dragged him closer. Frigga watched this all with curiosity as Loki was dragged before her. Ichigo let go and stepped back, but when Loki didn’t move or speak, he sighed deeply and shoved him from behind.

“Loki.” Ichigo hissed.

“H-Hello… Mother.” Loki said slowly.

Frigga smiled and cupped his cheek. She rubbed it with her thumb, lovingly. Loki pressed against her hand, feeling a small part of his heart soften.

“Welcome back, my son. How thankful I am to see you safe and sound.” Frigga said softly.

Loki swallowed and bowed his head to her.

“I am glad to be back.” Loki replied.

Frigga pulled away and turned her attention to Ichigo.

“Good day, young man and who might you be?” Frigga asked curiously. 

“Ah, good day, Ma’am. My name is Kurosaki Ichigo. It’s a pleasure to meet you. Loki had told me a lot about you.” Ichigo bowed deeply and Frigga chuckled.

“All good things, I hope.” she replied.

“Of course. Only good things.” Ichigo agreed quickly.

“Mother. This young man helped Loki after his fall.” Thor said, grabbing Ichigo by the shoulders and shaking him a bit.

“You helped my son?” Frigga asked, curiously.

“I really didn’t do that much.” Ichigo grumbled.

“He cared for me and watched over me while I was in a coma, Mother. He was a truly wonderful healer.” Loki explained.

Frigga’s eyebrow raised.

“That was quite noble of you.” Frigga stated.

“It was honestly just right time, right place, Your Majesty.” Ichigo replied.

Frigga hummed. She grabbed Ichigo’s hand and turned it over to glance at his palm. Ichigo blinked and then glanced at Loki in confusion. Loki just shrugged.

“I see. Well then, young man, I must thank you for your kindness to my son.” Frigga dipped her head slightly.

The Warriors, Sif, Thor and Loki’s mouths all dropped as Ichigo quickly tried to wave her off.

“It really was not that big a deal, I promise you! I mean all I did was keep him alive. That’s all.” Ichigo tried to explain, but Frigga smiled a secret smile and slipped her arm in his.

“Come, let me show you the beauty of our kingdom.” Frigga said.

Frigga started to pull Ichigo away, who looked back at the others in panic. Her handmaidens looked horrified, but did nothing to stop their Queen. Frigga paused and then glanced at the others from the corner of her eye.

“Oh, and your father is in the throne room. He is waiting for you both.” with those final words, Frigga dragged Ichigo off, her poor handmaidens chasing after them.

“Oh dear.” Loki muttered.

Thor leaned to Sif’s side.

“Follow them. Please.” Thor muttered.

“Got it.” Sif and the Warriors quickly followed the queen and Ichigo.

Left alone for the first time, the brothers glanced at each other. They could only pray their Mother didn’t eat Ichigo alive.

“Well, that went…” Thor trailed off as Loki sighed and rubbed his eyes.

“Let us get this over with.” Loki muttered.

Heading to the throne room, Loki felt a ball of anxiety form in his stomach. He wasn’t sure what to expect, but he knew it would not go well. They stood before the doors and Loki tried to gather his courage when Thor turned to him.

“Whatever happens, we will always be brothers.” Thor said.

Loki looked at him and then nodded.

“Brothers.” he muttered. 

They pushed the doors open. Inside, Odin sat on his throne, but that was it. Odin, his only good eye, followed them as they stepped before him.

“Welcome back, Thor… Loki.” Odin stated.

Both of them bowed before they straightened up. For a moment, silence reigned and then Odin sighed.

“Loki, step forward.” Odin waved and Loki did so.

The two locked eyes and just when Loki was about to speak, Odin spoke.

“Loki. I have spent the last few months reflecting on what transpired between us. I thought over everything and came to a startling conclusion.” Odin stood up and Loki swallowed hard.

Should he get ready to run? Maybe disappear? He had no idea and really was waiting on some kind of cue before he made any moves. Odin stood before him and Loki swallowed hard.

“For many years, I raised you as my own. I treated you as my son and believed those actions would make up for what I had done, for the cruelty I inflicted on your kind. But it is clear now that those actions were not enough. I treated you like my son, but I did not love you like one and for that, I am sorry.” Odin said.

Loki secretly pinched himself, to make sure he was awake and not in some kind of coma still. Realizing this was real, Loki swallowed hard and paused. Did he accept this? Could he move past the rage and disappointment of the past? Could he let this go and try to move forward for the betterment of their family? Loki would have to try, Odin didn’t apologize to anyone often, so he would have to accept it for what it was and swallow the pain that still existed inside him.

“Odin… All Father… Father, thank you and I am sorry as well. I was… angry. Enraged by what I learned and hurt. I wanted to hurt everyone like I was hurt, but now I see I was just acting out of spite. I know my actions might not be forgiven by everyone, but I hope my family will give me a second chance.” Loki stated.

Odin nodded and Loki felt odd. Strange. Like there was still some tension in the room, but like maybe they could do better now. Odin glanced at Thor.

“My son Thor, welcome back as well. You left rather urgently. I hope all is well?” Odin asked as he moved back to his throne and sat down.

Loki stepped back and Thor stepped forward.

“Well, yes and no, Father. I left to handle some business on Midgard, which has been handled, but some new issues have also caught my attention. Tell me, do you remember the Shinigami?” Thor asked.

Odin’s brow furled.

“I do, though vaguely. Why?” Odin asked.

“Well, it seems they have managed to evolve enough to build a society-” Thor was cut off.

“I apologize, they still exist?” Odin asked, quite baffled.

“I said the same thing!” Thor exclaimed.

“Shocking, is it not?” Loki shook his head.

Odin sat back in his throne. He seemed confused by the information.

“Continue.” Odin demanded after a moment.

“Yes, well, apparently Father, they have decided to go against some of your laws that you put into place eons ago and-” Thor was cut off again.

“What?” Odin demanded, his eye narrowed.

“You see, Father, the Shinigami decided that they did not need to follow your laws any longer… that they were above such things.” Loki stated.

“Above? Above MY laws?” Odin demanded, his fist tightening around the arm of his throne.

“Yes.” Loki nodded.

“And Father, they are letting children win their wars for them. Mortal, Midgardian children.” Thor said.

Odin looked between them before his face became stone.

“Is that so?” Odin asked.

“We can show you if you give us a chance.” Loki said.

“Then show me.” Odin stated.

Loki glanced at Thor and then at the door. As always, Frigga’s timing was perfect. The door opened for her as she came in with Ichigo by her side. Odin eyed them.

“And who is this?” Odin demanded.

“Father, this is Kurosaki Ichigo. He is a young warrior who was dragged into the Shinigami’s war.” Loki introduced.

“I see. Step forward.” Odin called, waving Ichigo closer.

Ichigo swallowed, but squared his shoulders and stepped forward. He held himself with confidence and pride. Loki was pleased. Any weakness in Ichigo would be seen as a disappointment to Odin.

“A warrior, eh?” Odin tilted his head to the side, rubbing his chin.

“Yes, Father! A fierce one indeed!” Thor said.

“Does not seem like much.” Odin replied.

Ichigo slowly looked at Loki and held up his fist.

“Do not!” Loki hissed quietly.

“Come now, Odin. The Warriors Three and Lady Sif have confirmed his battle prowess. Fandral made quite a showing of his now bruised nose.” Frigga said as she moved to stand beside him.

“Is that so? I am… unconvinced, but I will allow it… for now.” Odin stated.

“People usually are until I knock them on their ass.” Ichigo said, arms crossed.

Thor and Loki shared a glance, but said nothing. Odin turned his full attention to Ichigo.

“Tell me, what reason were you dragged into their war? Surely, they did not need a child to win their war for them, did they?” Odin demanded.

Ichigo looked around and then looked down.

“I was the only one strong enough and willing to make the sacrifice needed to stop him. I am not sure they would have won without me, but I couldn’t let them fail.” Ichigo stated.

“And why is that? What would you have lost if they failed?” Odin asked, curiously.

“Everything. My home, my friends, my family… my baby sisters. If they failed, all of that would have been taken away, destroyed by that man. I couldn’t fail, I didn’t have a choice.” Ichigo stated.

Odin sat there, rubbing his chin before he nodded.

“My Sons, I want them here. Bring them before me so I may speak to them myself and make my judgment.” Odin demanded before banging his staff.

Loki and Thor bowed.

“It shall be done, Father.” Thor said.

“Take as many warriors as you need. I want them to understand that they live only by MY grace and that they will follow MY laws.” Odin stated.

“Of course.” Thor agreed.

“Go and go now.” Odin waved his hand.

Thor nodded to the Warrior Three and Sif before he and Loki turned to the door.

“Um?” Ichigo called.

Everyone turned to him.

“What should I do? Should I go with them… um Your Majesty?” Ichigo asked, looking at Odin.

“You will stay here.” Frigga cut in before Odin could speak.

Odin turned to her, startled.

“I wish to hear more about your various battles. You promised me a story about your fight with a man named Grimmjow.” Frigga said.

Ichigo glanced at Loki, who nodded and Ichigo relaxed.

“Ok, yeah, I can do that.” Ichigo said.

With Ichigo settled, Thor and Loki headed for the Bifrost.

—sSs—

Isshin knew the second his son had disappeared from Karakura Town and cursed, loudly as he raced to the warehouse. Frustration didn’t even begin to cover what he was feeling right now, especially concerning his son and his inability to just let the past die and live a normal fucking life! Ever since the War, Ichigo had repeatedly rebelled against him in every way he possibly could. No matter how much Isshin tried to explain to him that it was for his own good, Ichigo refused to listen.

Ichigo had always been a stubborn child. When he was a boy, Isshin had let it slide because Masaki had always defended his actions, often coming to his rescue the second that tears welled up in Ichigo’s eyes. When she had passed away, instead of learning to be less stubborn and bullheaded, Ichigo had gotten worse, which had only led to more problems between them. After all, what else was Isshin supposed to do with a growing boy like Ichigo, who’s power at the tender age of 15 had been almost comparable to his own, a grown ass man and former captain of the Gotei 13?

A part of Isshin blamed himself for Ichigo growing up the way he did. After Masaki’s death, he knew he had failed to be a good father to any of his children. He knew he had left a lot on Ichigo’s shoulders and that guilt sat on his shoulders every day of his life. But at the same time, a part of him also blamed Ichigo himself. His son had thrown himself time and time again into the direct path of the Shinigami and their fucked up society. Sometimes, he never wished he had let that Kuchiki girl into his home.

Isshin got to the warehouse and found it empty. Gritting his teeth, he slammed his fist against the door in his rage.

“Why can’t you just listen to me!” he yelled.

Why did it always have to happen this way! Why did things just continue to happen to his son! Isshin stormed into the warehouse and, in full captain garb, tore the whole thing apart. If Ichigo wished to live outside his home, outside his protection, then he could live on the streets! After he was done, he left the warehouse, setting it on fire behind him.

—sSs—

Shunsui sighed as he adjusted his hat. Looking over the reports before him, the ball of dread growing in his stomach was getting worse. He had agreed to help Ukitake go through his files on Karakura Town to confirm what Ukitake had claimed was true, but it was clear something had gone wrong.

“I cannot believe this.” Ukitake muttered, rubbing his forehead.

“But it’s here in black and white.” Shunsui said, waving the form around.

“They were patrolling the wrong town! I mean, really!” Ukitake buried his face in his hands with a sigh.

“Yeah, that’s…” Well, Shunsui didn’t know what to say about that.

According to these forms, some time during the last eight months, the two Shinigami who were supposed to be patrolling Karakura Town had ended up patrolling another town miles away from where they were supposed to be, and no one had noticed. If he was going to be honest, it did not look good for his dear old friend, but they could not figure out how this had happened? It seemed so gradual that he wasn’t even sure they knew which town they were actually supposed to be in! Was it laziness? Or perhaps the hollows had been too strong and so they just decided to move elsewhere? Shunsui wished he had the answer.

“I will need to bring them both in and speak with them. Find out how this happened and why.” Ukitake sighed.

“Let’s hope they have a good explanation.” Shunsui stated.

“I just don’t understand!” Ukitake said in distress.

Shunsui was going to answer when a bright flash of light caught their eye, coming from the First Division. The two of them glanced at each other nervously before getting up.

“I guess it’s time.” Ukitake said.

“What a mess.” Shunsui sighed.

They flashed out the door and on their way, saw all the other captains heading that way, with Byakuya and Soi Fong in the front naturally. When all the captains arrived, Loki and Thor were standing there with four other warriors.

“We have returned. I hope you have kept your word.” Thor demanded.

“We have. The door has been sealed since you left.” Shunsui said, taking on the role of temporary Captain Commander.

Or at least, he hoped it was temporary. He wouldn’t be shocked, however, if after all this, it wasn’t. Thor nodded and they turned to the door before them. Lieutenant Sasakibe stood beside it, looking like he hadn’t even moved since the doors had closed just a few hours ago.

“Lieutenant Sasakibe, please unseal the doors.” Shunsui demanded.

Sasakibe looked like he wanted to do anything, but that. However, he pressed his hand to the slightly glowing door and the glowing went away. Stepping inside, they could see the Captain Commander was still encased in crystal. Thor nodded his approval before turning to the captains.

“We have spoken to the All Father and he has demanded your presence in Asgard.” Thor boomed.

Loki stepped forward.

“Be aware, this will be no easy talk. The All Father is not pleased with what he heard and his displeasure will be clear. This trial will be the trial for your lives and the lives of those who live in Soul Society. So, try not to make fools of yourselves, hm?” Loki stated mockingly.

“Or anymore than you already have.” the female Asgardian muttered.

More than a few captains shot them a dark look, but they knew better than to argue. Loki turned to Shunsui and eyed him.

“I suppose you are stepping up as temporary Commander?” Loki asked.

“For now. Yes. Shunsui Kyouraku, Captain of the Eighth Division.” Shunsui nodded.

“Excellent. You seem to have a better head on your shoulders than your predecessor. Let’s hope you use it.” Loki stated.

“Everyone, gather around the crystal. We will call upon the Bifrost shortly.” Thor demanded.

“And if we have no interest in going?” Mayuri asked.

A blade appeared under his chin. He turned to see Sif glaring at him.

“I dare you. Give me one reason and I will happily take it.” Sif said coldly.

“Are you threatening us?” Soi Fong demanded hotly.

“We are not here for a discussion. You all will stand before the All Father for judgment. So enough games.” Fandral replied coldly.

“Unless, of course, you would rather we simply thin the ranks now.” Volstagg stated.

The captains seemed to realize there were no other options and gathered around the crystal. Thor called upon the Bifrost and there was a bright flash of light. They landed in Asgard under Heimdall’s watchful gaze.

“Loki, if you would.” Thor stated.

Loki snapped his fingers and the crystal broke. The Captain Commander stumbled a bit before he slowly stood up.

“How dare you!” The Commander yelled.

His hand went to his blade, but before he could do anything, he found himself wrapped in chains.

“Enough of that now. Come along, your trial awaits.” Loki said coldly.

“I will not-!” The Commander started before he was grabbed.

“Enough.” Shunsui said coldly from his left side.

“Captain Commander, you need to see the bigger picture here.” Ukitake replied from his right side.

The Commander stared at the both of them before he huffed. Loki, taking his silence for acceptance, looked at Thor.

“Let us go.” Thor demanded.

With Thor and Loki in front, the Captains in the middle and the Warriors behind them, they crossed the Rainbow Bridge. When they got closer to Asgard, the captains realized very quickly that they had underestimated how large it would be. From every window and doorway, they saw warriors of all shapes and sizes, watching them, studying them and judging them. Shunsui pulled on his hat, feeling uneasy.

They came before the front doors, which opened before them. Even in the halls, they found more warriors, armed and dangerous. Finally, they came to the throne room and when those doors opened, they could tell they had just stepped into the fight of their lives.

Chapter Text

“All Father, we have returned.” Thor, Loki and the Asgardians bowed deeply.

Loki noted that Ichigo was gone, but Frigga still stood beside Odin.

“Welcome back, my sons.” Odin said.

Odin turned his attention to the Shinigami and glanced them over.

“So these are the Shinigami…” Odin trailed off.

The Captain Commander stepped forward, ignoring the chains he was wrapped in.

“I am Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto, the Captain Commander of the Gotei 13.” He stated.

Odin eyed him with boredom.

“So you are the one in charge?” Odin demanded.

“I am. I have commanded the Gotei 13 for many centuries. I have spent my life protecting the three worlds.” The Captain Commander stated.

“Hm…” Odin rubbed his chin.

Frigga stepped forward and waved her hand, causing the chains to disappear. Loki huffed slightly, annoyed, even as Frigga shot him a small smile as an apology.

“Then tell us, Captain Commander, you believe you are above the All Father’s laws?” Frigga asked.

“We no longer follow those laws. We have developed beyond them.” The Commander stated.

Frigga blinked, a bit startled perhaps before she nodded and stepped back. As they stood there, the balconies above the throne started to fill with Asgardians, all coming to see justice done. It was unnerving to have so many eyes on them.

“Beyond? You believe you… have developed beyond my laws? My rules?” Odin demanded.

“We have.” The Commander snapped.

Odin threw back his head and laughed. He laughed loudly before it trailed off.

“You? You infants think you have developed enough that you know better… than me?” Odin said, still chuckling slightly.

The Captain Commander glared darkly. The rest of the captains felt strange, the tension in the room was thick, but there was something more in the air. Shunsui found himself glancing around, trying to pinpoint the strange feeling. His eyes locked with Ukitake, who looked nervous.

“How… amusing. Truly.” Odin leaned on his fist.

“And what excuse do you have to drag children into your wars? Into your battles?” Frigga asked.

“Kurosaki Ichigo put himself into a war that had nothing to do with him! I will not be held accountable for his insolence and idiocy!” The Commander replied hotly.

Frigga raised an eyebrow and Thor winced.

“I know that look. I do not like that look.” Thor muttered to Loki.

“That’s because it’s the look Mother would give you before she taught you a lesson you will never forget.” Loki replied lowly.

Frigga hummed and stepped down to stand before him. Odin, seemingly realizing Frigga was serious, leaned back and waited to see what would happen.

“So your claim is that Kurosaki Ichigo is at fault for being involved in your war?” Frigga asked curiously.

“He is.” The Commander replied.

She nodded before she walked past him and looked around at the gathered captains. A few tried to meet her eyes, but only Ukitake, Unohana and Shunsui kept it.

“Do you know why children are so precious? Commander?” Frigga asked.

The Commander did not reply and Frigga nodded.

“Children are so precious because they are born as a clean slate. A blank stone to be written on.” For a moment, her eyes caught Loki’s and Thor’s before she turned away, hands behind her back.

“It is a parent’s job to teach and nurture a child until they grow into an adult and can set their own path. To be a parent is not easy. You must have patience, love and care to make sure you raise a child you can be proud of, but also a strict and firm hand when they get out of line.” Frigga explained.

“And this means what to me?” The Commander demanded.

Frigga hummed slightly.

“I am getting there. Patience, Commander.” Frigga stated.

The Commander looked like he was going to cut her off, but Odin’s narrowed glare made him stop. The Commander huffed in annoyance.

“As a parent, the proudest moment you can have is when you see your child grow beyond what you taught them and into the person they are meant to be. When you can stand behind them and see them go farther than you ever could have dreamt possible.” Frigga nodded.

A few captains were nodding along, seemingly agreeing with her.

“As a Mother, my purpose was to protect and raise my sons to be the kind of men I wanted them to be. I raised them to be warriors, strong and prepared for battle. I taught them to be swift in their decision making, strong in their convictions and to hold their heads high in both victory and defeat.” Frigga paused and stood before him again.

“I can only imagine that being the Captain Commander is a bit like being a parent.” Frigga said.

“I still fail to see your point.” The Commander replied.

Frigga smiled. Loki and Thor both winced. Here it comes.

“I am sure you have lived to see many Shinigami rise and fall. I am sure you know what it means to go into battle, into war, convinced it might be your last. The tremble of your hands, the quake in your heart, the fear that keeps your breaths short and quick? Standing before an enemy, not knowing if this moment would be your last? Praying that you have enough power, speed and ability to make it out alive? Hoping that you do not falter or fail?” Frigga asked.

“I have.” The Commander agreed.

“Now imagine being a child.” Frigga’s smile dropped.

“Imagine the fear of knowing that if you fail, if you die, everything you know, and love will be destroyed as well. That the weight of the world is on your shoulders when the worst thing you should be facing is an overly strict teacher in school. That the adults who should be protecting you are, instead, cowering behind your back. That men who have lived five, six, seven times your lifetime are using you as a sacrificial lamb.” Frigga stated.

She stepped forward and though The Commander did not step back, it was clear he was leaning slightly back.

“Kurosaki Ichigo should have never been on that battlefield because you, as the man in charge, should have been able to find the traitor among your people and made an example out of him. But! Because you were too weak, too blind and too proud to see past your own nose, you allowed him to do as he pleased. Like a failure of a parent, you left a mess for a child to clean up, to fix and he did. He fixed your mistake, your mess and you stand here, before the All Father, claiming that it was not your fault?” Frigga demanded.

“It was not.” The Commander replied.

Loki grabbed on to Thor and Thor grabbed onto Loki. They were wondering if they were about to watch a murder. Frigga stared deeply into The Commander’s eyes before she nodded and stepped back. She walked up and stood beside Odin’s throne. Odin was staring at her before he nodded.

“We are here today because you are on trial, Captain Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto. Your actions, your choices and your decisions leave much to be desired. Now I wish to speak to your captains and see what they have to say.” Odin demanded.

“I will not allow-!” The Commander found himself bound and gagged.

“You can testify for your innocence later.” Frigga said coldly.

The Commander was moved to the side to stand on a platform next to the throne. Odin turned his attention to the captains.

“You all understand what is on the line, do you not?” Odin demanded.

They all nodded. Odin, pleased by this, looked among them before he spoke again.

“The oldest among you, step forward. And be wise about the words you say before me, for they might just be your last.” Odin stated.

For a moment, no one moved and then Unohana stepped forward.

“Your name.” Odin commanded.

“My name is Unohana Retsu, I am Captain of the Fourth Division, which is also the healing division.” Unohana said sweetly.

“A healer?” Odin said, rubbing his chin.

“Yes, just a healer.” She agreed.

Loki and Thor shared a look. They did not buy it. She moved too powerfully and dangerously to be just a healer.

“How long have you been a captain?” Frigga asked.

“As long as Gotei 13 has been around. I was one of the originals next to the Captain Commander himself.” She replied.

“I see. Tell me, Captain, as a healer, you understand why children are not allowed on the battlefield, correct?” Frigga asked.

“Yes, I do.” Unohana replied.

“Did you attempt to stop Kurosaki Ichigo from being out on the battlefield?” Odin asked.

“No, I did not.” Unohana replied.

“Why?” Odin demanded.

“I have lived a long life. I fear that while I may be a healer, I also saw that Kurosaki-san was our only chance. Despite fighting in several powerful opponents and serious battles before his fight with Aizen, he still held quite a bit of power when most would have none. I cannot say we would have won without him.” Unohana stated.

“I see. Anything else you would like to add?” Odin asked.

Unohana glanced at The Commander before she nodded.

“The Captain Commander tries to pretend that he is a peaceful man, but he knows nothing of it. He created the Gotei 13 with the idea they would be a powerhouse and would never fail, but I believe his belief was shaken when Kurosaki-san broke into Soul Society to retrieve Kuchiki-san and stop her execution. I believe that his belief was shaken even more than a traitor was revealed to be among us. His inability to accept these facts have caused him significant mental decline, something I have been keeping track of.” Unohana stated.

There were some mutters from people in the room, but Odin cut off the chatter.

“You may step down.” Odin said.

She bowed and stepped back into line. Odin glanced around.

“Who is next?” Odin demanded.

Shunsui stepped forward, pulling on his hat.

“I believe that would be me. I am Shunsui Kyouraku, Captain of the Eighth Division and former student of the Captain Commander.” Shunsui said.

“A former student. I see. Tell me, what do you think of your former teacher’s actions? Did you ever have concerns about his decision making?” Odin asked.

“When it came to Yama-ji, I always believed he knew what was best, but yes, I had concerns.” Shunsui stated.

“About?” Frigga asked.

“Many things. The Kuchiki Execution, the Visoreds, the Quincies. The list goes on.” Shunsui stated.

More mutters as the All Father hummed.

“You may step down.” Odin said.

Shunsui glanced at his teacher before he stepped back into line. Ukitake stepped forward next.

“I am Captain Commander’s other former student, Ukitake Juushiro, Captain of the Thirteenth Division.” Ukitake said.

“And what did you think of your former teacher?” Odin asked.

For a moment, Ukitake looked down and then sighed deeply.

“I trusted him completely. I believed he knew what was best. Even when I did not agree.” Ukitake stated.

“Did you have the same concerns as the other captain?” Odin asked.

“Yes, we have spoken about it many times.” Ukitake nodded.

“And what was your opinion on Kurosaki Ichigo?” Frigga asked.

“I liked him quite a bit! Kuchiki Rukia is in my division and I was thankful for his intervention. I wish I could have done more myself.” Ukitake said, rubbing the back of his head.

“But you did not.” Frigga said.

“No, I did not. I was willfully ignorant and that will haunt me for the rest of my life.” Ukitake said softly.

“You may step down.” Odin said and Ukitake glanced at his former teacher before going to stand beside Shunsui.

“Who is next?” Odin demanded.

When no one stepped forward, Odin huffed.

“You. Step forward.” Odin said, nodding to Byakuya.

Though slightly taken aback, Byakuya stepped up.

“I am Kuchiki Byakuya, Captain of the Sixth Division and Head of the Kuchiki Clan.” Byakuya stated.

“And your opinion on the Captain Commander?” Odin asked.

“My opinion was the same as the opinion of my grandfather before me. He was the former Sixth Division Captain. He trained me to listen and obey, to not question the Captain Commander. That his word was law.” Byakuya stated.

“I see. And do you still believe in the Captain Commander? Do you still listen and obey without question?” Odin asked.

Byakuya paused.

“No.” he replied.

Odin nodded and Byakuya stepped down. Odin’s eyes landed on Shinji.

“You. Step forward.” Odin demanded.

Shinji smiled as he stepped up.

“Shinji Hirako, Captain of the Fifth Division and leader of the group called the Visoreds.” Shinji said. 

Mutters from the crowd, some Asgardians seemed uneasy with Shinji and his grin.

“And what is a Visored?” Frigga asked.

“Shinigami who have been infected with hollows. Most of us are victims of Aizen’s experiments, including Ichi-berry.” Shinji stated.

“Ichi-berry?” Frigga asked, baffled.

“Yeah, Ichigo. I like to call him Ichi-berry because it makes him real mad. He’s one of us.” Shinji said as his grin got wider.

Frigga nodded, thoughtfully. Loki had no doubt she was going to try to call Ichigo that later. He would have to warn Ichigo beforehand so he wasn’t blindsided by it.

“And your opinion on the Captain Commander?” Odin asked.

“Can’t say I’m a fan.” Shinji replied.

“For what reason?” Odin asked.

“Well, he tried to have me and mine executed for one. So needless to say, but I have issues with him.” Shinji shrugged.

“But you stand here as one of his captains?” Odin asked.

“Oh, no no. I am not here as one of his captains. Despite this robe, my loyalty lies with Ichi-berry and my Visoreds. I only agreed to go back to keep mine safe. I would throw The Commander to the fucking wolves if I had the chance.” Shinji explained.

Odin nodded and Shinji stepped down. One by one the rest of the captains went up. It was a rather mixed bag from there. Captains like Soi Fong and Sajin defended The Commander, claiming he was only doing what he thought was right. Some didn’t care, like Mayuri. Rose and Kensei stated the same as Shinji and finally, they got to Kenpachi.

“Kenpachi Zaraki, Eleventh Division Captain.” Kenpachi stated boredly.

“And you op-” Odin was cut off.

“Can we cut the crap already?” Kenpachi demanded.

Immediately, the room filled with gasps of shock and outrage as Kenpachi smirked.

“And what ”crap” do you speak of?” Frigga asked.

“This whole “share your feelings” crap that you all are doing. I could give a crap about The Commander or any of the Divisions. I didn’t become a Captain to protect people or any of that shit. I became a Captain so I could fight strong people and that’s it. That was the promise I was given and so far, that’s been delivered.” Kenpachi stated.

“A man of simple needs. I see.” Odin said.

“That’s right. I was born and raised in the worst district in Soul Society. Unlike some people, I got my spot because I killed the guy before me and that’s how it’s always been for me.” Kenpachi said.

“And what is your take on Kurosaki Ichigo?” Frigga asked.

“Ichigo? HA! Kid’s a riot! Always something happening when he’s around. Never a dull day when he’s involved.” Kenpachi grinned.

Shinji snickered and nodded in agreement.

“Interesting. And do you think he received his rightful due after the war?” Frigga asked.

“Nope. Not one bit. Hell, I heard from my men about the Captain Commander wanting him executed. I was going to bust him out myself if that happened. Captainship be damned.” Kenpachi shrugged.

Gasps of shock came from a few of the captains.

“What? Are you all telling me you would have let them kill the kid!” Kenpachi demanded.

More than a few captains glanced at each other, uncertain, and Kenpachi scuffed.

“The Eleventh Division was ready and willing to pull a Kurosaki and break the kid out before his execution. Hell, I had Yumichika mapping out the best way to get him out and safe. We wouldn’t do that for just anyone. Kid has mine and my division’s loyalty.” Kenpachi stated.

“And you would have had the Visoreds as backup.” Shinji said calmly.

“Enough!” Odin cut in.

Odin turned to Kenpachi.

“You can step down.” Odin said.

“Sure.” Kenpachi shrugged.

With all the captains spoken to, Odin glanced at Frigga, who nodded. She stepped forward.

“I wish to call upon Kurosaki Ichigo himself.” Frigga stated.

“Ichigo’s here?” Rose muttered, looking around.

“Oh, this is gonna be fun.” Shinji snickered.

The doors opened and Ichigo stepped inside with Frigga’s handmaidens coming in behind him. He had been cleaned up a bit, his clothes changed to something a little more Asgardian and his hair fixed up with a fresh braid on the side. Loki liked it. His eyes landed on the captains and he seemed startled.

“Hey, Ichi-berry.” Shinji waved.

“Shinji… Everyone.” Ichigo seemed a bit choked up to see them.

Frigga stepped down from the throne and walked over to him.

“You clean up well.” Frigga said with a smile.

“Thank you, Your Majesty. Your handmaidens had their work cut out for them.” Ichigo said with a bow.

“I am pleased with their handiwork.” Frigga said as her handmaidens beamed with pride.

“You called for me, Your Majesty?” Ichigo asked.

“Yes, step forward.” Frigga nodded.

Ichigo looked around again and locked eyes with Loki, who gave him a small nod. Ichigo nodded back before following Frigga back before the throne. Odin eyed him.

“State your name.” Odin said.

“Kurosaki Ichigo, Your Majesty.” Ichigo said politely.

“And what are you connected to the Shinigami?” Odin asked.

“I am part Shinigami through my father, former Tenth Division Captain Shiba Isshin.” Ichigo stated.

A few of the captains looked taken aback.

“Captain Isshin?” Unohana muttered, shocked.

“I thought he had passed on years ago.” Ukitake whispered.

“Shhh.” Shunsui cut in.

“How did you end up involved in the war?” Odin asked.

“Aizen Sosuke, the traitor, was going to use my town and the people in it to unlock the Soul King’s realm. I was tasked with stopping him.” Ichigo replied.

“And you were how old?” Frigga asked.

“Fifteen, I was going to turn sixteen in a few months.” Ichigo said.

There was more muttering and the captains shifted slightly.

“Barely old enough to drink, much less be on the battlefield.” someone muttered.

“Unbelievable.” another said.

“I didn’t see my first battle until I was 50 years old!” came another whisper.

Ichigo looked around and shifted his body weight nervously. He didn’t seem to know what to do with so many eyes on him. 

“During the war, did you ever fear for your life?” Frigga asked.

“I mean, basically the whole time? I did die once.” Ichigo stated.

More mutters, even louder now.

“He what?” Shinji hissed, looking pissed.

“And when the war was over, how were you rewarded for your sacrifice?” Odin asked.

Ichigo frowned and shook his head.

“I didn’t ask for one and I didn’t want one. Like I said, I was doing what I needed to. Nothing more.” Ichigo said.

“Thank you. You may step down.” Frigga said with a smile.

Ichigo nodded. When he stepped down, he seemed unsure of where to go. Loki waved him over and Ichigo moved to stand beside him. Odin looked over the captains and then The Commander.

“It is your turn to speak, Captain Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto, but be forewarned, if you attempt to threaten anyone who have spoken here today, you will find your chance to speak will be revoked. Do I make myself clear?” Odin demanded.

The Commander glared, but nodded. Odin glanced at Frigga, who waved her hand. The chains disappeared.

“Now, Captain Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto. Tell me, have you listened to everyone who have spoken today?” Odin demanded.

“Yes, I have.” The Commander replied.

“And your opinion?” Odin asked.

The Commander scowled as the air started to heat up.

“I have served as the Captain Commander for centuries. I have given blood, sweat and tears for Soul Society and those who serve under me. To have those actions picked apart, examined by those who were not there and who do not know of my sacrifices is preposterous and I will not stand for it.” The Commander said coldly.

Odin just shook his head. The captains looked nervous and uncertain. Loki and Thor glared at him.

“It was I who made Soul Society strong! It was I who created the Gotei 13 and handpicked the captains that would keep our way of life! It was I who paved the way for Soul Society to crush whatever enemies who dared to attack us! It was I who made the army as powerful as it is and without me, Soul Society will fall into ruin!” The Commander’s voice got louder.

Loki felt Ichigo flinch next to him and glanced over to see Ichigo’s eyes were closed, like he was bracing himself for something. Loki scowled, his eyes narrowing in rage.

“You still fail to understand why we are here, Captain Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto. You talk of sacrifice, but you failed to take into consideration the sacrifice of a child. You talk of blood, sweat and tears, but do not reward those same actions. I may not have been on that battlefield, but those who were have questioned your actions. So tell me this, why should you be allowed to keep your position?” Odin demanded.

“Because I am the only one willing to do what needs to be done! No matter the cost!” The Commander yelled.

Odin sighed deeply as Frigga just shook her head.

“And that, Captain Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto, is why you have lost your way. I have made my decision.” Odin declared.

“I will not allow–!” The Commander found himself bound and gagged once more.

The Commander’s eyes shot to Loki, who gave a small smile and wave.

“Captain Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto, you have lost your way and forgotten why Soul Society was created. It was not meant to be your personal army or a show of your power. It was meant to be a place for souls to rest before entering the reincarnation cycle, yet you have done nothing to make that path easier for them. For these actions, you will be stripped of your position, your title and your power. You will live out the rest of your life as a nameless soul until the time comes for you to enter the cycle. That is my ruling.” Odin banged his staff on the floor, which echoed across the room.

Everyone was speechless, shocked beyond words. Even Loki and Thor were amazed. There was one person, however, who was not going to let that go easily. The former Commander pulled his blade, his own power exploding outwards, breaking Loki’s binds. Despite Odin being the one to make the ruling, the former Commander’s eyes landed on where Loki, Thor and Ichigo were standing.

“YOU MONSTROUS BEAST! THIS IS ALL YOUR FAULT!” the former Commander shot across the room, focused on Ichigo.

Ichigo stared, his eyes wide in shock and fear. He could feel the heat from the former Commander’s blade even from where they were standing. Ichigo knew he would be on them shortly and also knew this was all his fault. That the former Commander was mostly angry with him. Ichigo moved without thinking. He shoved Loki, who fell into Thor, which ended with them on the floor, out of the way of the attack. The former Commander’s blade buried itself into Ichigo’s gut.

“ICHIGO!” Loki yelled.

The pain was ungodly, he could smell and hear his flesh sizzling. Ichigo screamed.

“Die.” The Commander hissed, glaring at him with hatred.

The Commander was ripped away from him by several people, most of them being his captains. His blade was left in Ichigo’s body as Ichigo collapsed backward into Loki’s arms. Frigga appeared by his side along with Unohana. 

“Hold him steady.” Frogga demanded.

“I have him.” Loki said, voice shaking.

Ichigo’s eyes opened and he stared at Loki.

“A-Are you ok?” Ichigo asked.

“You are not asking me that right now when there was just a sword in your guts!” Loki hissed, almost angry.

Ichigo grinned.

“What can I say? My priorities are a little skewed.” Ichigo admitted.

“He is fine, but you are not. So please stop talking while we try to save your life.” Frigga stated quickly.

“Your Majesty, if you can focus on his pain, I can heal his wounds.” Unohana said, hands glowing.

“Bet you never thought you would have to heal me again, huh?” Ichigo asked Unohana, who chuckled.

“I had hoped not, but as always, you manage to subvert expectations.” Unohana said gently.

“Unhand me!” the former Commander yelled.

He was being held down by Thor, Ukitake, Kenpachi, Byakuya, Kensei and Shinji. Odin stood over him, eye narrowed in rage.

“You dare attack anyone in my kingdom! You have truly lost whatever little of your mind that you had left!” Odin’s voice boomed across the room.

“Guards, take him to the dungeons. I will have to reconsider my punishment for him. It was clearly too lenient.” Odin demanded.

The Commander was dragged out by several Asgardian guards, still yelling his rage for all to hear. With him gone, the captains moved to be with Ichigo. Shinji knelt by his side, his eyes gold.

“Captain Unohana, status?” Shunsui asked.

“The wounds are extreme. I am struggling to keep his organs from collapsing.” Unohana admitted.

“What can we do?” Shinji demanded.

“Previously, his wounds were easier due to his own healing ability. Now that he is human, it is much harder.” Unohana said.

“What if he got his powers back?” Loki demanded.

Unohana’s brow furled.

“It would need to happen quickly.” Unohana said.

“We need Urahara.” Shunsui stated.

Frigga turned to Loki.

“Go.” she commanded.

Loki nodded as he handed Ichigo off to Shinji. Ichigo’s eyes fluttered open and he seemed to reach for Loki. Loki took his hand.

“I will be back.” Loki said.

He turned into an orb and shot off. He raced out of the kingdom and across the Rainbow Bridge.

“Heimdall!” Loki called.

“The door is open!” Heimdall replied.

Loki didn’t stop, he leapt into the Bifrost and prayed.

Chapter Text

Urahara and Yoruichi jumped when a bright light landed in the backyard.

“Urahara Kisuke! Is that sword finished!” Loki demanded.

“I just finished it, why? What is going on?” Urahara questioned.

“It’s Ichigo! He’s been gravely injured. We must return his powers or he will die!” Loki stated.

Urahara cursed and grabbed the blade before flashing to his side.

“Then what are we waiting for!” Yoruichi yelled as she flashed to Loki’s other side.

“Heimdall!” Loki called.

The Bifrost it up again and they appeared in Asgard. Loki didn’t think twice, he turned them into an orb and shot back across the Rainbow Bridge. When they got to the kingdom, Loki didn’t slow. They landed in the throne room and Loki turned them back. Urahara raced to Ichigo’s side and saw the wound with wide eyes.

“Kisuke, please tell me that sword is done!” Shinji demanded.

Urahara swallowed and looked at the sword in his hands.

“I hope so.” Urahara muttered.

“Kisuke, we can’t rely on hopes right now.” Kensei said.

Frigga held out her hand.

“Give it to me. Loki and I would guide it. It will work.” she stated.

Urahara nodded and handed it off.

“We need a shinigami to handle it.” Urahara said.

“Please hurry, I am losing him.” Unohana said, her voice urgent.

“Kid, hold on just a bit more.” Shinji begged.

Ichigo’s eyes fluttered slightly before falling close. Loki knelt on Ichigo’s other side, across from Frigga. Their eyes locked, both glowing.

“When you are ready.” Frigga said.

“I am.” Loki stated.

Byakuya stepped forward.

“I can handle it.” Byakuya said.

The three of them held the sword and it began to glow brightly. With a nod, they plunged it down. Ichigo’s eyes snapped open and his power exploded. Everyone was thrown off their feet. Loki quickly sat up and gasped in awe. Ichigo with his power restored stood there, his wounds gone and his sword in hand.

“Kurosaki-san.” Urahara let out a sigh of relief.

“Geez kid. I’m too young for gray hair.” Yoruichi said with a chuckle.

“Oh my.” Frigga muttered.

Ichigo turned to her and held out his hand.

“My apologies, Your Majesty.” Ichigo said.

He helped her up before helping Loki and Unohana up as well. Byakuya simply got up on his own.

“Kid!” Shinji hugged him, nuzzling his cheek against the side of Ichigo’s head.

Loki raised an eyebrow at the sight.

“It’s a hollow thing.” Rose whispered.

“Ah.” Loki nodded.

“How do you feel?” Urahara asked.

Ichigo frowned and looked at the blade in his hand.

“Different? Is that a good thing?” Ichigo asked worriedly.

“We will have to wait and see, unfortunately.” Urahara paused and looked around.

“I apologize, but what is going on?” Urahara asked.

“The Captain Commander has been put on trial and found guilty.” Frigga said simply.

Urahara looked at Yoruichi, who looked back at him, before they both looked at her.

“Oh.” they said softly.

“His punishment will need to be changed after his attack on Ichigo and my sons.” Frigga said coldly.

Everyone winced, they did not want to think about what punishment he would face next. 

“I see. Can someone fill us in on what happened?” Yoruichi asked.

As Frigga took the chance to speak to them, Ichigo turned to Loki and smiled.

“Thank you.” Ichigo whispered.

“Hm? For?” Loki asked.

“Everything. Saving my life mostly.” Ichigo said.

Loki just smirked.

“Oh, that small thing? It was nothing.” Loki said, mocking him.

Ichigo chuckled and shook his head.

“I guess I deserved that.” Ichigo muttered.

“You did more than just save my life, Kurosaki Ichigo. You have done so much for me that you will never know. I had hoped to pay that back and this is the start of it.” Loki stated.

“Well, it’s certainly a good start. Let’s hope you keep it up.” Ichigo said gently.

“You saved a God, Ichigo. Now this God will save you.” Loki replied.

Ichigo nodded, though he seemed a little uncertain. He kept looking at the blade in his hand before he held it out.

“This is Zangetsu.” Ichigo muttered.

Loki placed his hand on the blade and felt the spirits inside reaching out to him. They were shaken, confused, but also very wary of his presence.

“There are two of them?” Loki asked.

Ichigo’s brow furled.

“Yes… it’s always been that way. There’s Zangetsu and the hollow.” Ichigo said.

“Hm, we will speak on it more later.” Loki said as he sensed someone approaching.

“Ah, Kurosaki-san. Nice to see you again, though I wish under better circumstances.” Shunsui said as he came over.

Ichigo eyed him, clearly not interested in speaking and Shunsui seemed to realize that quickly. He kept his distance and bowed.

“I wish to apologize for… well the list is endless it seems. First and foremost, the former Captain Commander’s attack on you. I wish I had been faster to stop it. But I was not and for that I am also sorry.” Shunsui said seriously.

Ichigo sighed. He seemed very annoyed.

“Please get up, you know how I feel about people bowing to me and things like that.” Ichigo said.

Shunsui straightened up.

“Very bold of you to apologize for other people’s actions.” Loki stated.

“But it was not just his actions. But all of our inactions as well. I will admit my faults and the faults of my fellow captains. I hope to have a proper sit-down conversation with you, but only if you are willing and agree to it.” Shunsui said.

Ichigo blinked confused, before looking at Loki. Loki hummed, sensing that Ichigo would prefer him to be at this future meeting. It’s clear whatever trust Ichigo had originally had in the Shinigami was gone and did not wish to be with them alone.

“He will need to consider it. It will have to be held in a neutral area, so give him some time.” Loki stated.

Shunsui nodded and walked away. Shinji, apparently tired of talking to Urahara, moved to stand beside Ichigo. Loki and Shinji eyed each other.

“Should I be concerned about you two?” Ichigo asked.

“Just wanna know why this God is so invested in you, Ichi-berry.” Shinji stated.

“As stated before, this God owes Ichigo quite a debt. And I intend on repaying it tenfold.” Loki said coldly.

“Shinji, it’s ok. I promise, Loki is… I would say harmless, but that’s a total lie. Ummm, can be reasoned with? That’s about as close as I got.” Ichigo said after a moment.

“Righttt.” Shinji said slowly.

“Well, if you are so concerned, then I expect to see you around more often. After all, that’s the only way to be sure I am not harming him.” Loki smirked.

“Oh, you won’t be able to get rid of us after this.” Shinji smiled back.

“I have a bad feeling about you two.” Ichigo muttered.

“Kurosaki-san, a word please?” Urahara called.

Ichigo raised an eyebrow.

“Oh, so suddenly you want to talk to me? Not sure I feel like talking to you.” Ichigo replied coldly.

“Ouch.” Shinji muttered as Loki smirked.

Urahara winced and moved closer. Loki clicked his tongue as a warning.

“That’s close enough.” Loki said.

Urahara paused, startled, glancing at Ichigo, who didn’t correct him. Urahara reached up to adjust his hat.

“Well, chop chop now. Don’t keep us all waiting in suspense for your great speech of wisdom.” Loki said boredly.

“Loki.” Ichigo sighed, but it came out as almost fond, not discouraging.

“I am sorry, Kurosaki-san. I can only imagine that many of us are, but I am truly sorry for listening to what Isshin said.” Urahara said softly.

Ichigo froze before slowly turning his head. Loki’s eyes got wide.

“Run that by me again?” Ichigo hissed.

Urahara, realizing that perhaps Loki hadn’t told Ichigo everything he knew, swallowed.

“My father… had something to do with this?” Ichigo demanded, his power rising.

“What is this?” Thor asked as he looked at the goosebumps on his arms.

“So heavy.” Sif said.

“Aye.” Volstagg agreed.

“Kurosaki-san-” Urahara was cut off when Ichigo’s eyes began to glow.

“What… did my father tell you to do, huh?” Ichigo demanded.

“He asked us to leave you alone, let you live a normal life.” Yoruichi said as she walked over.

“A normal life? A normal life! What kind of fucking bullshit is that! I went to WAR and I’m, what, just supposed to forget about it? Just move on with my life? Go to college? Find a nice girl and settle down with a wife and kids or something? After everything I have seen? After everything I have done?!” Ichigo yelled, his power rising heavily.

A few people started to feel ill as the ground and walls started to shake. Loki and Shinji locked eyes, startled by the sheer force they were feeling. Ichigo had just gotten his power back, yet it was already clear it was so much stronger and heavier than it had been before.

“Kurosaki-san, please.” Urahara held up his hands, trying to calm him down, but ended up doing the exact opposite.

“I KILLED PEOPLE! I KILLED PEOPLE FOR YOU ALL!” Ichigo screamed.

A few people started to fall to their knees, mostly shinigami while some of the Asgardians clung to walls and each other as they quickly left. Even Loki was starting to get a bit woozy.

“I-Ichigo…” Loki choked.

“I SACRIFICED SO MUCH FOR ALL OF YOU AND I WASN’T EVEN WORTH A CALL! A VISIT! AND ALL BECAUSE OF…!” Ichigo yelled.

Shinji dropped to the floor, gasping, trying to breathe. He wasn’t the only one. Most of the captains were down, at least kneeling, sweating heavily.

“Ichigo!” Yoruichi cursed, still standing, but only by power of will.

Walking across the floor with grace, seemingly not affected by his heavy power, Frigga appeared before Ichigo and grabbed his face.

“Calm yourself, young man.” Frigga demanded.

“I! They! I can’t!” Ichigo gasped, one eye a bright gold while the other was a deep blue.

“Would you like me to help you? You are overwhelmed by both your sudden return of power and your own emotions. I can help you if you let me.” Frigga said gently.

Ichigo grabbed her hands, nodding his head violently.

“Plea-Please!” Ichigo muttered.

Frigga smiled and her hands began to glow a soft, warm gold. Ichigo took in a deep breath and his power finally stopped before it began to drop sharply. The shaking stopped and people started to gasp and choke as they breathed in deeply.

“There we go. Much better.” Frigga said with a smile.

“I-I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean…” Ichigo mumbled, his eyes changing back to brown.

“Hush now. Your emotional state was heightened by the sudden return of your powers. Come, let us get you some food and drink.” Frigga said, slipping an arm into one of his and leading him away.

Ichigo seemed a bit dazed, so he followed her without question. As they opened the doors, Odin came back, looking a bit frazzled.

“What was that power just now!” Odin demanded.

Everyone pointed to Ichigo, including Frigga, and Odin stared at him.

“Ok, now I believe it.” Odin said, rubbing his chin.

“Yes, well he needs refreshments. Odin, My King, I will leave these shinigami to you.” Frigga said before she swept out of the room, dragging Ichigo with her.

Odin watched her go before turning back to the room full of people.

“Quite a woman, huh?” Shunsui said.

Odin chuckled.

“Of course. That is why she is my queen.” Odin replied.

With most everyone in the room distracted, Loki slipped out the door. With the shinigami being handled by Odin and Ichigo with Frigga, Loki took the time to leave. He had one last person to deal with after all.

—sSs—

Loki landed in Karakura Town for the second time, this time in the Kurosaki clinic’s backyard and he wasn’t alone.

“Why are you here? Where is my son?” Isshin demanded, in full captain uniform.

Loki raised a bored eyebrow.

“Safe. That’s all you need to know.” Loki replied boredly.

“He is not safe! Especially not with you!” Isshin snapped, pulling his blade.

“And he was safe with you? Do not make me laugh, you child abuser.” Loki sneered.

“I am not-!” Isshin was cut off when Loki appeared before him and slammed his hand into Isshin’s chest, sending him flying into the tree in the backyard.

“Is that so? So the bruise on Ichigo’s back from where you threw him into the warehouse door was what? An accident?” Loki sneered.

“He was being disrespectful! He was stealing food from his sisters! He was refusing to live under my roof!” Isshin snapped back.

“Oh? So you are such an incompetent father that you cannot provide enough food for your children?” Loki asked.

Isshin gritted his teeth.

“I do not know what you believe a father is supposed to be, but I believe you should have done more research. Because you are doing it wrong.” Loki mocked.

Isshin glared.

“Give me back my son. He cannot return to that warehouse anymore, I made sure of that. So he HAS to come home.” Isshin demanded.

Loki had to wonder what the fuck that meant, but it’s not like Ichigo was ever going to live in that warehouse again, so it was really no concern of Loki’s what he did to it.

“Ohhh, that is no longer even my choice. You see, my mother, Frigga, has taken a liking to him and if I were to try and take him from her, she would most likely curse me. So, I am not doing that. Good try, though.” Loki said with a smile.

“You will return my son or I will!” Isshin was cut off when Loki placed his staff under his chin.

“Good ahead, threaten me. I promise you, whatever you threaten me with, I will return tenfold. I have no time nor patience for child abusers.” Loki stated coldly.

The creak of a door made both of their heads turn to see Yuzu standing in the doorway.

“Dad?” Yuzu called, eyes wide.

“Yuzu, go back inside!” Isshin yelled.

Yuzu’s eyes darted between them, looking nervous before she let out a breath and straightened her spine.

“You stop that right now!” she demanded, hands on her hips.

Loki blinked, startled.

“Pardon?” Loki said.

“Yuzu!” Isshin snapped.

“You stop bothering him right now!” Yuzu demanded.

“Yuzu, you need to-” Isshin was cut off.

“Dad, I was talking to you! You leave Ichi-nii’s new friend alone right now!” Yuzu demanded, pointing a wooden spoon at him.

Isshin looked floored and Loki decided that he liked this one.

“Yuzu!” Isshin hissed.

Yuzu walked over and stood next to Loki.

“I’m so sorry about Dad. He’s a little weird sometimes! I’m Yuzu! You must be Loki! Ichi-nii told me all about you! Did you like the food I sent with him?” Yuzu asked eagerly with a bright smile.

“Ah, so you are the famous cook Ichigo constantly tells me about! Yes, it was wonderful, indeed!” Loki said pleasantly.

Yuzu beamed with delight.

“Oh, I’m so happy to hear it! I was a bit worried when he said you struggled with some of the spices I like to use, so I toned it down as much as I could without losing the flavor.” Yuzu replied.

“Yuzu! Get in the house!” Isshin finally came out of his stupor and Loki sighed deeply.

“Oh dear, it seems your father wishes to finish the business between us. Yuzu, please return inside and shut the door behind you. Oh and whatever you hear, do not worry about it.” Loki said, using a bit of hypnosis to make sure she complied with his command.

Her face went blank before she nodded and went back inside, shutting the door firmly behind her. With her gone, Loki turned back to Isshin and smiled.

“Now, where were we?”

—sSs—

Ichigo held the cup of tea in his hands, trying to absorb the warmth into his bones. He felt strangely cold and off kilter right now. According to Frigga, it was due to his sudden return of power and almost death. She stated his soul would settle soon enough, but he would definitely need to take it easy from here on out. Ichigo was grateful for her presence. He did not know her very well, but so far, she had been very kind and understanding. He appreciated her for doing that.

“More?” Frigga asked and Ichigo shook his head.

“No, thank you. I am fine for right now.” Ichigo replied.

Frigga waved off the servant holding the pot and they left with a bow. Frigga folded her hands on her lap.

“You are upset.” she said simply.

Ichigo swallowed hard and nodded.

“I feel so… I don’t know if betrayed is the right word, but it feels right.” Ichigo stated.

“Then if it feels right, it probably is.” Frigga said with a motherly nod.

Ichigo swallowed and looked at the liquid in his hands.

“Tell me what bothers you.” Frigga said and Ichigo’s brow furled.

“Everyone asking me to be normal. I don’t even know what normal is. I mean, I’ve never been normal! Even as a kid, I saw ghosts. So I don’t understand how anyone… I can’t figure out why they would… I just…!” Struggling with the words, Ichigo roughly ran his hand through his hair.

“Hm, it seems you are upset no one asked you what YOU wanted. They just assumed they knew.” Frigga said as Ichigo nodded.

“Yeah, exactly.” Ichigo muttered.

“People tend to do that. They tend to assume they know best and are, more often than not, wrong.” Frigga stated.

“It’s just…! I’ve never even gotten along with my father! So why they all thought he knew what was best for me, I don’t understand!” Ichigo snapped, his power rising once more.

Frigga placed a hand on his and he calmed slightly.

“Perhaps they had hoped you and he had made amends and that he was finally stepping up to be the father you needed.” Frigga said gently.

“But I don’t need him anymore! I needed him before and he wasn’t there, so I don’t need him now!” Ichigo snapped.

Frigga hummed lightly.

“Then tell me what you do need.” She replied.

Ichigo paused, startled before he frowned.

“I need…?” Ichigo muttered.

“Yes, what do you feel as though you need? What would make the anger in your chest calm?” Frigga asked.

Ichigo shifted nervously, looking away from her.

“Having answers. Understanding why everything happened. Maybe even understanding what I am.” Ichigo muttered.

Frigga hummed slightly and seemed to frown.

“While I understand your thought process, I must point out one concern that I have. Would that help heal your hurt? Or would that hurt you more?” Frigga asked.

Ichigo sighed.

“I am not sure that is possible.” Ichigo said.

“Believe me, dear, that is always possible.” Frigga said sadly.

Chapter Text

Loki hummed as he twirled his dagger. Isshin stood before him, glaring darkly. So far, Isshin had been on the attack and Loki had simply been defending himself, mocking the man for his failures as a father and as a man, which had made the once Shiba even more upset. The once nice backyard was now a mess and he would have to remember to return it to how it looked before he left.

“My son. You haven’t answered me! Where is he!” Isshin snarled.

“Oh dear, you certainly have a one-track mind. I would say it’s rather impressive if it had not cost your son so much time, care and consideration.” Loki stated.

“And what do you know! You know nothing about my family!” Isshin yelled.

“No, I’m afraid YOU do not know anything about your “family” because if you did, you would have known that Ichigo was in danger in this town, so I moved him to a safer location.” Loki stated.

For a moment, there was a pause and Loki raised an eyebrow.

“Or perhaps you did know he was in danger. Perhaps you hoped that your son, knowing he was vulnerable to hollows, and knowing his friends were stretched thin trying to take care of the whole town by themselves, with no Shinigami to back them up, would force your son back under your roof and under your control.” Loki stated.

Isshin didn’t reply and Loki had to admit, it was a rather slimy and underhanded way to keep a strong soul like Ichigo in line. Ichigo was a hothead and strong willed, he had obviously been rebelling against his father by living in the warehouse, outside of his father’s home, but if the hollow population continued to grow and continued to go after Ichigo, putting both himself and innocent bystanders in danger, he would eventually be forced back under Isshin’s roof. And if he was of the same standing as those in Soul Society, he could have convinced the two shinigami stationed in town to move to another location. Loki sneered.

“What a kind and loving father. How you would rather manipulate your son than sit down with him and, oh I do not know, talk to him? Maybe treat him like a human being instead of your personal punching bag.” Loki stated.

“He is not my-“ Isshin stopped when Loki pressed his dagger under his chin.

“I have heard enough out of you. I am done listening to whatever nonsense you convinced yourself is the truth. If I have my way, you will never, ever see Ichigo again, but it is not my decision. If Ichigo wishes to see you, then I will help him along, but if he does not, you have made your bed and I will make sure you lie in it.” Loki hissed.

Loki kicked him away and Isshin stumbled back. For a moment, they stared at each other and then Loki shook his head.

“But that is for the future and you have pissed me off now. Which means you will not be getting off easily tonight. I do hope you have enjoyed your peaceful life, because your peace ends now.” Loki stated.

Isshin opened his mouth, ready to demand what he meant, when he heard a voice behind him.

“What have you done?” a female voice hissed.

Isshin froze. He knew that voice, he knew it well. Slowly, Isshin turned his head to stare at the woman behind him. The dead woman. The woman who had once been the love of his life.

“Masaki.” He whispered in horror.

Her eyes were glaring at him, her face twisted in rage and hatred. She wore the same outfit she had the day she had died. She looked as beautiful as the day he had lost her. To see her again after so long broke his heart and made his hands begin to shake.

“What have you done!” Masaki demanded again.

“M-Masaki, please.” Isshin turned to her, reaching for her, longing to touch her.

She slapped his hand away and he flinched back.

“What have you done to my son!” she screamed.

Isshin’s eyes widened in fear.

“Masaki! Please, my love, please just listen to me!” Isshin begged.

“What have you done! What have you done to my baby boy! What have you doneeeeee!” she screamed again.

Loki smirked, staring at the man who was talking to empty air. Taking a step back, he turned and walked away, the backyard going back to the way it was before. Let the man beg his phantoms for their forgiveness. Because he certainly wouldn’t get any from Loki. A peek into the house showed that Yuzu and Karin were eating at the kitchen table, completely ignoring the man yelling outside. They were probably used to it. Stopping in the front yard, he wasn’t surprised to see Ichigo’s former friends standing there.

“Well, well, look what the cat dragged in.” Loki sneered.

The three of them looked miserable. Ishida had his bow out already, an arrow pointing at Loki, but Loki wasn’t concerned.

“Make it stop.” Orihime begged.

“Oh? Make what stop?” Loki asked, looking innocent.

“The nightmares.” Chad said, his power activated as well.

“Nightmares? Oh dear, I’m not sure what you mean. I am the God of Mischief, not Dreams. Perhaps you pissed off some other god and they are punishing you.” Loki stated.

“Cut the bullshit! They started after I dealt with you!” Ishida snapped angrily.

Loki hmphed.

“Just make them stop, please.” Orihime begged.

“And why would I?” Loki asked, head tilted to the side.

“Because we didn’t do anything!” Ishida snapped.

“Exactly. You did nothing.” Loki said coldly.

The three of them flinched.

“You did nothing . Nothing to help Ichigo, nothing to make him feel supported, nothing to save him from himself. Did you really think doing nothing was going to help him? Because I promise you, it just convinced him that he was worthless. That he was only worth the power he had and the sacrifice he could make. So please, spare me your tears. I care not.” Loki sneered.

“We do care!” Orihime screamed just as thunder boomed overhead, covering up Isshin’s horrible screaming.

Loki rolled his eyes, feeling the urge to turn her into a worm or something before Chad suddenly straightened up. His power disappeared and he stood there before he dropped into a bow.

“Please. I just wish to see my friend again.” Chad begged.

Loki paused, eyes narrowed before he hummed.

“And what of you two? Do you just wish to see your friend again?” Loki asked.

Orihime dropped into a bow.

“Yes, please.” She begged.

Loki turned to Ishida, who’s arrow had disappeared, but his bow was still out. Eventually that faded and he bowed too.

“Please.” Ishida said softly.

Loki stared at them before he nodded.

“I will bring you to him. But know this, Ichigo has already had a long day and his temper may flare. After all, he did have to face the Captain Commander and his captains, deal with a whole trial, almost die again and get his powers back. So, he may not be that forgiving when you see him. I hope you are ready.” Loki stated.

“Wait, what?” Ishida’s head snapped up in alarm.

Loki just smiled as the Bifrost appeared and beamed them to Asgard. The three teenagers fell to their knees when they landed, confused and dazed.

“Well, come along. Chop chop. Time is wasting.” Loki called as he turned and headed for the bridge.

“Wait, you can’t just drop all of this on us and not explain!” Ishida demanded as he stumbled after Loki.

“Then listen carefully because I will only say this once, the Captain Commander of the Gotei 13 was brought before the All Father for his actions during the war. He was found guilty and in a rather harebrained idea, attacked Ichigo in front of all of Asgard and his own captains. In order to save his life, his powers were returned to him via Urahara Kisuke’s special sword. There, now you know everything.” Loki stated.

Ishida was staring at him before he looked back at Orihime and Chad.

“I-Is Kurosaki-kun ok?” Orihime asked.

“He is fine. Between the healer captain and my mother, he was saved.” Loki stated.

“Oh.” Orihime muttered.

“And the Commander?” Chad asked.

Loki looked at him over his shoulder and smirked. Chad swallowed hard. As they made it to the front gates, Loki found Thor standing there, arms crossed.

“I wondered where you had disappeared to, brother.” Thor said before he looked at the other three.

“Thor, these are Ichigo’s… friends.” Loki said.

Thor blinked before his brow furled.

“He told us he did not have any friends anymore. Have I missed something?” Thor asked, confused.

“We are his friends.” Ishida insisted.

Loki and Thor shared a look before Loki just waved them along.

“Are those captains still here? Or has the All Father finally sent them away?” Loki asked.

Thor winced.

“Unfortunately, I was asked to look for you because we have a bigger problem.” Thor said.

“Bigger problem?” Loki asked, confused.

“Squad Zero is here.” Thor said.

Loki stared at him blankly.

“Who?” Loki asked.

“Apparently, they are the direct guards for the Soul King.” Thor stated.

Loki had a sinking feeling about this.

—sSs—

About thirty minutes before Loki returned, Thor was watching as the All Father spoke with Shunsui, the apparent new Captain Commander, when there was a loud crashing sound that shook all of Asgard.

“What on Asgard is that?” Sif yelled, body tense.

There was silence before the sound of people coming down the hall was heard.

“Hello!” a loud voice called.

“Oh boy, here we go.” Shunsui muttered, suddenly looking nervous.

Five individuals, dressed in captains’ robes, suddenly walked into the room. They were stopped by Asgard guards. The rest of the Asgardians tensed, all hands on weapons before Odin held up his hand.

“Halt. Let them through.” Odin called from his throne.

The guards stepped back and let them approach.

“Ah, All Father! Good day to you!” Ichibei Hyosube called.

“And who might you be?” Odin demanded.

The five of them stopped before the throne. A few of the captains look increasingly nervous. Thor frowned as he looked the five individuals over. He could sense a lot of power contained in them and took a note of the symbols on the back of their robes. He wondered what the significance was.

“We are the Royal Guard, protectors of the Soul King and the Royal Palace. It has been brought to our attention that you have decided to interfere in Shinigami business, so we decided to come here and get this all cleared up!” Ichibei said.

“Cleared up you say? And what is there to clear up?” Odin asked, rubbing his chin.

“Well, it seems there has been a miscommunication between Soul Society and Asgard.” Ichibei stated.

“A miscommunication you say. And here I thought it was quite clear that Midgard, where Soul Society and the Royal Palace reside, are under Asgard’s control?” Odin asked.

Ichibei stood there a minute before letting out a loud belly laugh.

“Ah, well yes, I can understand why you would assume that, but no, that is not correct. We exist outside the Asgardian laws. Have for many centuries now actually!” Ichibei said after a moment.

“That so. Interesting because I do not remember you ever letting me know of such information, so as far as I am concerned, Soul Society and the Royal Palace are both under my control still.” Odin said boredly.

“But-“ Odin stood up and grabbed his staff.

“If you wish to remove yourselves from my control, then you will have to take it by force and I am afraid that my ire has already been stirred, so I do not see myself holding back against you all. I will come down with the full fury of my wrath and if some of you get wiped out…” Odin shrugged.

“And you think you can? We are quite a bit stronger than the captains you have dealt with before us. We are the elite, the top of the food chain compared to these kids.” Kirinji sneered.

“And we won’t be leaving here until balance is restored.” Senjumaru stated.

“So truly, we are more than happy to take the control from you! Just say the word!” Ichibei stated boldly.

Odin shook his head, almost amused.

“If you believe you can, then feel free to try. I wish to see what makes you five so much better than those underneath you. Perhaps you will have enough courage to face me head on, rather than drawing your blade on a helpless child like the former Captain Commander.” Odin said.

“Hold on. Former?” Ichibei said, holding up a hand.

“Yes. The Former Captain Commander has been placed on trial for his crimes and his punishment will be decided soon enough.” Odin stated.

“And what crime was he on trial for, exactly?” Kirio asked.

“For allowing children to fight in his war.” Odin replied.

“Ahhh! I see the misunderstanding here then!” Ichibei said, nodding.

“You keep claiming there is a misunderstanding. What misunderstanding could there possibly be about children not being forced to fight in wars that have nothing to do with them?” Odin demanded hotly.

“You are talking about Kurosaki Ichigo, correct?” Ichibei asked.

“Yes?” Odin replied.

“Then the answer is simple: he is not a child! See? Problem solved.” Ichibei nodded.

Odin blinked as did most of the people in the room. Urahara and Yoruichi shared a look and Thor frowned when he saw it.

“I fail to see how that explains anything.” Odin replied.

“If he is not a child, then what is he?” Thor asked, baffled.

Ichibei turned to him and smiled.

“A candidate to be the next Soul King.” Ichibei replied.

The silence was deafening. Several captains, including Ukitake and Shunsui, mouths hung open in shock. The Asgardians, who did not understand what the significance of that was, stared at him blankly. Thor almost wished Loki was here to explain.

“A… candidate?” Ukitake whispered.

“Oh yes, yes!” Ichibei laughed again.

“Come now, you didn’t think someone like that would be allowed to live if there wasn’t a larger plan for him, did you?” Kirinji scuffed.

“We were just waiting for him to get a bit stronger before taking him to the Palace to start his training.” Senjumaru stated.

“We had already started setting everything up for him.” Oetsu chuckled.

“He will be a wonderful Soul King!” Kirio said with a little laugh.

“As you can see, the Captain Commander was doing what needed to be done to make sure Kurosaki Ichigo was ready for the throne! So no children were used during that war. See? Problem solved!” Ichibei nodded sagely.

Odin stared at them, seemingly completely unsure of what to say before Thor stepped forward.

“Are you all mad!” he roared, thunder booming outside.

“Oh my. Not so loud, young man.” Ichibei said.

“No, I ask you again, are you mad! He is a child! Barely enough to be out on his own, much less the lynchpin in a war or a Soul King, whatever that is! How can you stand there and justify this! Do you have no honor!” Thor demanded.

“Watch yourself, Son of Odin. I will not have my actions called into question by you.” Ichibei said darkly.

“Besides, everyone knows he isn’t even human, much less a child. So don’t get all uptight about it.” Kirinji scuffed.

“He is a CHILD!” Thor yelled.

“Thor!” Odin snapped and Thor gritted his teeth, but stepped back.

The Warriors Three and Sif stood by his side, trying to show their support for his anger, but feeling just as upset.

“He has you all confused, it seems.” Oetsu said, shaking his head.

“And what are we confused about? You insist he is not a child and now you claim he is not human? Does this go along with your former Captain Commander’s declaration of him being a “monstrous hybrid”?” Odin demanded.

“That is quite right. You see, Kurosaki Ichigo cannot be classified as anything other than an abomination created by men who did not understand why such things were made illegal. To call him a child is… well ludicrous.” Ichibei said.

“What a load of crap.” Kenpachi snarled.

“Kenpachi!” Soi Fong hissed, trying to get him to shut up.

“No, it is. Because that kid is more human than half of the actual humans I have ever met. So don’t give me that crap.” Kenpachi said.

“I have to second that thought.” Ukitake said.

“He can act human all he wants, but he isn’t. He’s just a beast.” Kirinji stated.

A few captains looked like they wanted to start yelling, or at least swinging, but didn’t. Odin tilted his head to the side before glancing at Thor. Thor, catching the look, immediately slipped behind Volstagg, who stepped in front to block his exit, allowing Thor to slip out a side door. He had to find Loki, this was getting bad.

He headed for the Rainbow Bridge, hoping he knew his brother was well as he thought he did and he did! Watching as Loki walked towards him with three strange humans behind him, Thor could only pray Loki would be able to get control of this situation.

—sSs—

As they walked back to the palace, Thor whispered all the information to him and finally, pieces started to click into place, but what did they mean when they claimed Ichigo was a candidate to be the next Soul King? Loki needed answers.

“Thor, how did you say they got here?” Loki asked.

“The guards mentioned there is a strange object in the gardens. Some sort of tower?” Thor replied.

Loki nodded and then made a clone.

“I will go look into this “Soul King”. Something smells fishy here. I shall return shortly.” Loki said.

“I will try to keep Father from smiting them… I think you might have the easier job.” Thor grumbled, but left with the clone and Ichigo’s friends for the throne room.

Loki made himself invisible and headed for the gardens. Sure enough there was a strange tower sitting there, right smack dab in the middle. He scowled at the destruction of their mother’s favorite place. He would have to get these Royal Guards back for their disrespect and disregard. Pressing his hand against the tower, his magic started to trace the path it came back to where the Soul King Realm was.

It was a bit tricky; they certainly had the damn dimension under lock and key, but Loki wasn’t a trickster god for nothing. He had broken into more secure places than this for shits and giggles. He used all the tricks he had learned and soon opened a small hole for him to slip into. The Soul King Realm was certainly large, but finding the Palace was startlingly easy. Loki, still invisible, snuck into the Palace, keeping to the shadows so as not to be spotted, but there was no one there?

He didn’t see a single person, soul or otherwise, the entire time he was there and eventually dropped his invisibility completely, figuring it was best to save his magic. Walking around, he had to wonder what was going on until he found a long staircase.

“The throne perhaps?” he muttered.

Walking up the stairs, he pushed the door open and the second his eyes landed on what the room contained, his heart dropped.

“Oh no.”

Chapter Text

Using the same exit Thor used, the five of them slipped back inside and it was clear things had devolved even more during the time they were gone.

“We are at an impasse. If you refuse to release your claim on us, then we will have to take it by force. I, Ichibei, am the Monk Who Calls The Real Name. It is my job to give names to all things, but what is given can also be taken away. When I am done here, your name will be erased, I will be sure of it.” Ichibei said.

The Royal Guards started to pull out their various weapons, looking ready to fight to the last. Ichibei’s brush looked like the most dangerous of them all.

“Then try it. I promise you, you will not survive.” Odin stated.

“This will just be another small battle in my life. Do not curse us with your final breath when we are victorious.” Ichibei said.

“And when we are done, we will be taking Kurosaki Ichigo with us. It is time for him to start his training.” Senjumaru stated.

“He is not ready for such a thing!” Ukitake stated.

“We will make him ready. As we said before, he is not human, you do not need to feel sympathy for him.” Oetsu replied.

Oh dear, that wasn’t good at all. Time to stop this before it devolved into a fight in the middle of Asgard.

“If I may step in.” Loki clone stated.

They all turned to him, startled before Odin nodded. Loki turned to Urahara and smiled.

“I think there is something you have been hiding from us all.” Loki stated.

Urahara closed his eyes and nodded.

“They are, admittedly, not wrong about Kurosaki-san’s origins.” Urahara said softly.

“And what does that mean?” Ichigo’s voice demanded.

Loki winced. As always, Frigga’s timing was perfect. Frigga and Ichigo stepped into the room and the tension seemed to rise as Ichigo eyed the Royal Guards with confusion.

“Ah, there he is now! You’ve caused everyone quite some problems, haven’t you?” Ichibei asked Ichigo, who stared at him.

“I have a feeling it’s less Ichigo’s fault and the fault of those around him.” Frigga replied coolly.

“If that is what you wish to believe.” Ichibei stated with a smile.

“Okkkk. Can someone please explain what is going on?” Ichigo asked.

Loki glanced at Odin, wondering what he would do.

“It seems these… Royal Guards are quite upset about my decision to place the former Captain Commander on trial.” Odin stated.

“And a Royal Guard is…?” Ichigo asked.

“We keep an eye on the Royal Palace and the Soul King. Try to keep up.” Kinriji said mockingly.

Ichigo glanced at him.

“No offense, but if you are that important, you would think someone would have told me about you before this. So I guess you aren’t that important in the long run of things.” Ichigo stated.

Loki coughed to keep himself from laughing. Thor didn’t bother, laughing out loud, as did a few others. Kirinji looked furious.

“Watch it, beast!” Kirinji snapped.

Senjumaru slapped him in the back of the head.

“Be quiet. You are embarrassing yourself.” Senjumaru stated.

Kirinji rubbed the back of his head, grumbling angrily.

“Beast, huh? I thought I was a Visored?” Ichigo asked.

“Yes… and no.” Urahara said slowly.

The entire room looked at him.

“What. The fuck. Does that mean.” Shinji hissed angrily.

“Well…” Urahara trailed off.

“Urahara, I need you to answer me, right here and now. What the fuck am I?” Ichigo demanded.

Urahara’s eyes dropped to the floor before he spoke.

“A Quincy Shinigami hollow hybrid…” Urahara stated.

There was silence for a good thirty seconds as several people tried to process that statement before someone spoke.

“Q-Quincy! Wait a minute, my family is the only Quincy family left! Does that mean…?” Ishida yelped, eyes wide.

“You are cousins, yes.” Urahara nodded.

Ichigo and Ishida looked at each other, absolutely shocked. Ichigo felt Frigga’s hand tighten on his arm and suddenly, he wished he had listened to her advice. Maybe he had been better off not knowing after all.

“Oh.” Ichigo muttered.

“There is a long story there that I will explain at another time.” Urahara stated.

“I will hold you to that.” Ichigo replied.

Ichibei clapped his hands to gain everyone’s attention.

“There! As you can see, Kurosaki Ichigo is not a human and therefore does not fall under the same level of protection and care that a normal, human child would. So your trial against the Captain Commander was a sham and he needs to be released.” Ichibei said with a wide grin.

“Yes, but he wasn’t the only child in that war.” Urahara stated.

The Royal Guards turned to him, confused.

“What?” Oetsu asked.

Urahara waved his hand towards Orihime, Chad and Ishida.

“All three of these humans were also involved in the war.” Urahara said.

“So what?” Oetsu asked.

“Asgardian justice stands. That is what.” Thor stated.

“I have heard enough. If you all are just the guards, I wish to speak to this Soul King you keep going on about. Bring him forward.” Odin demanded.

“You got a lot of nerve-!” Kirinji started to yell, but Ichibei just held up his hand.

“The Soul King has more important issues to concern himself with than this. That is why we were sent.” Ichibei said.

Loki raised an eyebrow.

“You are telling us that your so-called Soul King has more important things to worry about than the fact that his entire shinigami army could be wiped out? That the Captain Commander is being tried for war crimes? I find that… curious.” Loki asked.

“The Soul King is a being far beyond your understanding.” Senjumaru replied.

“That I doubt very much.” Loki said smiling.

“I’m confused.” Ichigo muttered to Frigga as Loki and the Guards started to go back and forth.

“Oh?” Frigga asked.

“If the Soul King is alive and well, what do they need me for? Why am I a candidate and why were they going to start training me then? I normally only get training when I am needed immediately, so it doesn’t make any sense to me.” Ichigo asked.

Frigga paused, a thoughtful look crossing her face before she spoke.

“Well, isn’t that an interesting question. Let’s find out.” Frigga said with a smile.

Ichigo glanced at her and nodded.

“Let’s.” he agreed.

“If your Soul King is so very busy, then perhaps we may go to him?” Frigga suddenly cut in.

“Excuse me?” Ichibei said, blinking rapidly.

Frigga smiled sharply.

“Well, you have stated that Ichigo here is a candidate for the Soul King title. This is the first time he’s hearing about it, so he would rather ask for clarification from the Soul King himself. So if he does not wish to come to us, we will simply go to him to make it easier. If you are worried about who will keep him in line, I am more than willing to travel with him.” Frigga said.

“I am afraid that is also not an option.” Ichibei replied.

“Why? Because if we went, would we learn the truth?” Loki asked.

Ichibei’s eyes shot to him.

“And what truth is that?” Ichibei asked.

“That he’s dead.” The doors slammed open and Loki walked in with a very large object wrapped in cloth floating behind him.

“Loki?” Frigga asked, looking between the two Lokis in concern.

“What do you mean dead?” Shunsui demanded.

The two Loki met and merged into one as the object was placed on the floor. The Royal Guards looked horrified, as if they already knew what the cloth contained.

“What have you done!” Ichibei roared, suddenly furious, his grip on his brush tightening to the point where his knuckles were white.

“Why, I just went looking for answers you seemed to be unwilling to provide and look at what I found.” Loki said.

Loki ripped the cloth from the object to reveal what remained of the Soul King. There were several loud gasps as everyone took in the sight.

“What is this, Loki?” Odin demanded.

“This is their precious Soul King, All Father. Cut to pieces and trapped in crystal. Seems to me that he has been this way for many, many years.” Loki stated.

“Dear Asgard.” Sif muttered.

“I can’t believe this.” Thor said softly.

Ichigo stepped up to the crystal and his eyes were wide with shock and terror. He swallowed hard.

“You said I was a candidate… was I going to end up like this?” Ichigo demanded, his voice shaking.

Ichibei and the guards said nothing. Ichigo’s terrified eyes turned to Urahara, who looked pale and shocked.

“Did you know!” Ichigo yelled.

Urahara’s eyes snapped to Ichigo, his head violently shaking back and forth.

“No, never. I had no idea.” Urahara said.

Ichigo looked at Loki, who nodded after a moment.

“He is telling the truth. He had no idea.” Loki said softly.

Ichigo swallowed before he turned away, hand running through his hair roughly.

“I… I think I’m gonna be sick.” Ichigo muttered.

“This can’t be real.” Byakuya whispered, stepping forward.

He was staring at the crystal as if it had just shattered everything he had ever known, and it did. The faces of the Gotei 13 captains were a mix of shock, fear and revulsion. Is this what they had been serving all their lives? This rock was the Soul King?

“He is not dead.” Ichibei said coldly.

“Then what do you call this then?” Loki asked, eyebrow raised.

“He is in deep meditation. Focusing all his energy on keeping the three worlds balanced.” Ichibei said simply.

Loki smiled.

“Convenient is it not? That your precious Soul King is trapped in this crystal, unable to speak for himself?” Loki stated.

Ichibei’s eyes narrowed.

“I have heard and seen enough.” Odin declared, banging his staff on the ground.

Odin turned to Frigga.

“My Queen, take the children and leave. It seems there are more serious matters that I must attend to.” Odin demanded.

Frigga, sensing his rage at the situation before him and worried how he would unleash it, grabbed Ichigo and his three human friends before pulling them from the room. Odin turned to Loki and Thor.

“My Sons, guard the doors. No one will be leaving until I am satisfied my questions have been answered.” Odin demanded.

Loki and Thor moved to stand next to the doors, bodies tense and weapons ready. Loki pressed a hand to the door frame, locking the room down with magic as well.

“Warriors Three, Lady Sif, guard the so-called Soul King.” Odin demanded.

They moved into place. With that done, Odin turned to the Royal Guards.

“You will answer my questions. If your answers do not satisfy me, you will regret it.” Odin stated.

“We are not afraid of you.” Kirinji stated.

Thunder boomed outside.

“You should be.” Odin said.

—sSs—

Frigga brought Ichigo and his friends to a small sitting room. Inside, Ichigo started to pace, he rubbed his hands together with his brow furled and his famous scowl firmly in place. Frigga, sensing he needed a moment, turned to the others. Glancing over them, she sighed.

“You are all cursed. Loki’s handiwork?” Frigga asked.

“Yes, Ma’am.” Chad said softly.

“Loki can be quite the trickster, but I have a feeling this was not one of his harmless pranks. So what did you do to bring my son’s ire down upon your heads, hm?” She said sitting down.

The young girl turned to Ichigo and burst into tears.

“Kurosaki-kun, we are so so sorry! Please forgive us!” she cried.

Ichigo tensed, but didn’t look at her.

“And what are you sorry for?” he demanded.

Frigga saw the way their heads bowed.

“Hm, it seems this needs a serious discussion. But first, introductions. I am Queen Frigga.” Frigga stated.

“Ishida Uryu, Your Majesty.” Ishida bowed.

“Yasutora Sado. You can call me Chad.” Chad bowed.

“Inoue Orihime.” Orihime hiccupped and bowed.

“And your connection to Ichigo is…?” she asked.

“We are his friends.” Ishida stated before Ichigo cut in.

“FORMER friends.” Ichigo snapped.

“Kurosaki-kun.” Orihime muttered.

“No, don’t give me that crap! You haven’t spoken to me in months, Orihime. MONTHS. Much less looked at me! So take your friendship crap and shove it!” Ichigo snarled.

Orihime curled into herself, eyes wide with terror. Ishida’s hand started to curl, as if he was going to call for his bow. Frigga hummed lightly, trying to regain control of the room.

“I see there are a lot of emotions right now. Can we sit down and talk about them?” Frigga asked.

Ishida, Chad and Orihime all took a seat, but Ichigo continued to pace instead. Frigga snapped her fingers and some servants brought in food and tea. They quickly left when she nodded at them, closing the door securely behind them.

“Let us start at the beginning. You all were allies during the war.” Frigga stated.

“Yes. We originally went to the same school and were in the same classes. During the war, Orihime was taken by Aizen. We went to save her.” Ishida said.

Frigga nodded thoughtfully.

“War changes people, especially with you all being so young.” Frigga said.

Ichigo tched loudly, his whole body tense.

“So does losing your power, your whole fucking identity and then having the same people you gave your LIFE for turn their back on you like you’re fucking worthless!” Ichigo snapped angrily.

“We were trying to help you!” Ishida yelled, getting up.

“How?! How the fuck would that help me! Because let me tell you, it didn’t!” Ichigo yelled back.

“Your father-!” Ishida was cut off when Ichigo grabbed him by his shirt and forced their faces closer.

“My father is a piece of shit that has HATED me since the day my mom died!” Ichigo roared in his face.

Ishida’s eyes widened.

“My father never gave a shit about me! If he cared about me, he would have helped me! He would have trained me! He would have told me! But he did nothing! He let me struggle! He let me bleed, fight and die! He knew what would happen when I fought Aizen! He knew what the Final Getsuga Tensho would do and STILL taught it to me!” Ichigo screamed in his face.

Ichigo shoved Ishida back and he fell back into his chair, staring at Ichigo with wide, terrified eyes.

“So quite honestly, I don’t give a FUCK what he told you because he’s a lying bastard! And the fact that you believed him! You believed him and listened to him! Over me! While claiming to be my friend!” Ichigo’s eyes were wet with tears.

The look of broken anger seemed to have stunned the three of them. Ichigo choked on a sob and Frigga got up. She hugged him and he clung to her, shivering as the emotions overwhelmed him.

“There, there. You have been through so much when you are so young and today alone has been long and tiring. Just let it out.” Frigga said gently.

“W-We…” Ishida didn’t even know how to reply.

Frigga sighed and gently pulled Ichigo away to sit him down, put a cup of tea in one hand and a sandwich in the other. Ichigo seemed to have shut down, staring at the floor blankly as he ate his sandwich. Frigga sat back down and looked them over before sighing.

“You are all very young. Plans were made without your consent and beyond your control by people who are supposed to protect and care for you. You all were used. While I understand your anger and feelings of betrayal, you are all victims. To blame one another when there were adults who should have protected you solves nothing. You must stand strong together, as a group.” Frigga said softly.

Orihime looked at the floor, tears rolling down her face. Chad stared at the wall, his shaking hand covering his mouth. Ishida just stared at her, looking hopeless and lost. Ichigo finished his sandwich and just sat there.

“I cannot undo what has been done. I cannot fix what they have broken. I wish I could, but no magic in all the universe could fix what has been taken from you all, but you can fix it together. You can work to regain the bond you lost, but that will only work if you all agree to it.” Frigga said.

“I want it back.” Orihime whispered.

“Me too.” Chad muttered.

Frigga looked between Ishida and Ichigo. Ichigo closed his eyes and seemed to curl into himself before he looked up.

“I know you are scared of me.” Ichigo said, looking at Orihime and Ishida.

Both flinched. They seemed ashamed of it, but couldn’t argue against his words.

“And why is that?” Frigga asked, curiously.

“Because I became a hollow in Hueco Mundo.” Ichigo admitted.

Chad looked between them, lost.

“I lost control, but I never… I never would have hurt either of you. I swear.” Ichigo said.

“But you did. You did hurt me. You stabbed me!” Ishida snapped, anger boiling over.

Ichigo flinched.

“I never meant to, but you are right, I did and I am sorry.” Ichigo whispered.

Ishida’s anger seemed to die out and he covered his face with his hands. Orihime looked between them.

“Hime.” Ichigo called.

She locked eyes with him.

“I’m sorry for scaring you. I.. I just wanted to save you…” Ichigo said.

“And you did.” She reached over and grabbed his hand.

Orihime smiled and Ichigo stared at her.

“You saved me, you saved everyone and you are right. We didn’t support you when you needed it. And I am so so sorry, Kurosaki-kun.” Orihime said.

“I am as well. I swore to be by your side and I wasn’t. I’m sorry.” Chad said.

“I’m sorry as well. I… was scared and it was just easier to stay away. I’m sorry.” Ishida finally said.

“Thank you.” Ichigo nodded and there was an audible pop.

Ishida, Orihime and Chad all immediately collapsed, making Ichigo jump to his feet in concern, but Frigga just held up her hand to stop him.

“Loki’s curse has been lifted. They are simply asleep.” Frigga stated.

A snap and several servants came in.

“Take them to some of the guest rooms and put them to bed. Have healers monitoring them and making sure it is nothing worse than exhaustion. If anything changes, alert me immediately.” Frigga ordered.

Ichigo watched anxiously as all his friends were picked up and taken away. When the door closed behind them, Ichigo sat back down and rubbed his eyes.

“Thank you.” He muttered.

Frigga just rubbed his back.

—sSs—

With the children gone, the tension in the air spiked violently. Shunsui was the first to speak.

“I want a serious answer. Orders coming from the Soul King Realm, were they coming from you?” Shunsui demanded, staring at Ichibei.

“Any and all orders were given by the Soul King. I just helped send out the orders.” Ichibei replied.

“Hmph, interesting answer.” Loki stated.

“Let me guess, a lie?” Thor asked.

“Not exactly. A half truth at best.” Loki said.

“Unbelievable.” Ukitake whispered, shaking his head.

“Your jobs are to uphold the laws and rules Soul Society were based on, not to question those above you.” Senjumaru stated coldly.

“And we have seen what not questioning orders ends with. Personally.” Shinji sneered.

“What happened to you all was an unfortunate incident, but nothing that could have been stopped.” Kiriko said.

Shinji looked like he was going to reply when Odin cut in.

“Enough. You will answer my questions now.” Odin stated.

“Then ask them.” Senjumaru said.

“The Soul King, how long has he been your ruler?” Odin asked.

“As long as Soul Society has stood.” Ichibei replied.

“Soul Society was created long after I had already claimed Midgard as my territory. You still insist you are above my laws?” Odin asked.

“We have explained it over and over to you. If you do not believe us, then that is fine, but we will not answer to you.” Ichibei said.

Odin sighed and shook his head.

“Because you answer to the Soul King?” Odin asked.

“Correct.” Ichibei nodded.

Odin lifted his staff and brought it down with a loud bang. The crystal containing the Soul King shook violently. Loki and Thor both winced as several of the captains and royal guards yelled in horror.

“What are you doing, yo!” Oetsu yelled.

“I have warned you time and time again. You are under my command. If you wish to bow to a false idol like this rock, then go ahead. But you will also heed my rules as well.” Odin declared.

Ichibei stepped forward, his face twisted in rage.

“Your actions will bring the wrath of the Royal Guard down upon Asgard! We will not stand idly by as you threaten the Soul King and the balance of the worlds!” Ichibei said coldly.

“To destroy the Soul King means the destruction of, not just Soul Society or the Royal Palace, but the Human World too! Everything is tied to him!” Kiriko said urgently.

Odin hummed as he rubbed his chin.

“So this leech has infected Midgard with his power? Very well, then I will keep him here, under my watch, since you insist on following him like some lost sheep. Perhaps then you will fall in line.” Odin stated.

“We will fight to keep him from you!” Oetsu stated.

“And if you do, you will bring my wrath down on all of Soul Society. So tell me, who do you think will survive between our two nations?” Odin asked.

“Please wait!” Ukitake called as he stepped forward.

“Ukitake!” Shunsui hissed, but Ukitake just shot him a look.

“Please, there are many innocent lives in Soul Society that have nothing to do with this!” Ukitake said to Odin.

Odin sighed deeply.

“You think I do not know this? Do you think I have stayed my hand before because a few innocent lives might end up in the bloodshed? I’m afraid that my heart has long since hardened to such a decision.” Odin said.

Thor and Loki nodded, knowing this to be true. Ukitake gritted his teeth before turning to the Royal Guards.

“Is your ego so large that you would continue down this path! Knowing what will happen!” Ukitake demanded.

“We protect the Soul King and the Soul King alone. The Shinigami in Soul Society are your’s to protect. So if they died, you failed at your job, not us.” Kirinji stated.

Ukitake looked heartbroken.

“All of my men have sworn their lives to protect the Soul King! Do they mean nothing!” Ukitake yelled.

“What are ants in the war between lions?” Senjumaru replied, closing her eyes.

“Their sacrifices will not be in vain.” Kiriko stated.

“There doesn’t have to be any sacrifices!” Ukitake yelled.

“Ukitake!” Soi Fong hissed, trying to get him to stop.

“No! I am so sick of hearing about sacrifices! People risking their lives to save a dying, corrupt system that isn’t working!” Ukitake yelled angrily.

“Stand down, Captain.” Ichibei said.

“I will not! I will not stand down anymore! I will not sit here and listen to you talk about my men like they mean nothing! Like their lives mean nothing! I feel like we are standing at the exact same place we were a year ago when Aizen was coming and we were talking about using a boy to stop him! I stood down then, letting it happen and look where it got us! So no, I will not be standing down!” Ukitake replied hotly.

“Ukitake.” Shunsui muttered.

Ukitake grabbed his own captain’s coat.

“I made an oath when I took on this coat, an oath to protect Soul Society and those who lived inside it! That includes the men you want to carelessly send to war! And I will not let that happen! If you wish to go to war with Asgard, then you will not have the help of the 13th division!” Ukitake finished.

“You would dare side with Asgard?! Over your own Soul King! Over the balance of the worlds!” Ichibei gasped.

“I would if that meant I didn’t have to send innocent lives to war again!” Ukitake yelled back.

Loki’s eyebrow raised.

“Well now, things are getting interesting.” Loki muttered.

“Is he…?” Thor asked.

“His words are pure and clear. That is the truth.” Loki stated.

Thor nodded, thoughtful as Ichibei stepped towards Ukitake.

“Then you are a traitor and will be dispensed of as such!” Ichibei replied.

“Mah, I think not.” Shunsui said, stepping forward and placing a hand on Ukitake’s shoulder.

“And what do you have to say about this, new Captain Commander?” Odin asked.

Ichibei’s eyes widened.

“I believe I stand with my captain here. All our lives, we were told following the Soul King was the only way to protect the balance of the worlds and keep harmony. But what harmony is there when souls are dying at an alarming rate and we are not able to keep hollows at bay? If this is what the very Soul King himself has been reduced to?” Shunsui shook his head.

“My clan has served both Soul Society and the Soul King with honor for hundreds of years. If my grandfather were still alive to see this, it would break his heart.” Byakuya said coldly.

“We’ve been serving a rock this whole time. Amazing.” Kenpachi scowled.

“You all have turned traitor!” Kirinji yelled.

“We have done nothing, but protect and serve! Only to find out that we would be thrown to the wolves at the slightest inconvenience!” Sajin snapped back.

As the tension rose in the room, the doors suddenly slammed open, breaking the magic Loki had placed on it. Thor and Loki were thrown off their feet and turned to see…

“Ichigo?!” Loki yelled.

Chapter Text

With Frigga and Ichigo just a few minutes before.

Ichigo sighed, staring at the floor. Frigga and he had been sitting in silence since his friends had been taken away and it felt like all the adrenaline Ichigo had been running on was starting to wane. Despite the fact that his wounds were gone, his body still remembered the feeling of the blade entering his flesh. Touching the spot where his wounds still throbbed with phantom pain, Ichigo closed his eyes.

“Perhaps you should get some rest yourself.” Frigga suggested.

“I’m ok, Your Majesty, I’m just-” Ichigo cut himself off, head turning to the side.

“Ichigo?” Frigga called when he didn’t finish his sentence.

Ichigo was staring at a wall, his brow furled and head tilted to the side, like he was listening to something. She reached out to touch his arm, worried something was wrong when his eyes flashed and she jerked her hand back.

“Yes.” he muttered.

The air changed and felt heavy with power that wasn’t his.

“Who are you?” she demanded, getting to her feet, gathering her magic.

Two star like pupils looked at her before Ichigo stood up. He smiled at her, almost kind, before he walked past her. She blinked, confused, but followed after him.

“Ichigo? Can you hear me?” Frigga called.

Ichigo said nothing. When they came to the door to the throne room, Ichigo held out his hand and the doors burst open. Frigga jumped, startled as Ichigo walked into the room.

“Enough.” Ichigo said, but it was not his voice.

Everyone tensed, their eyes wide with shock as Ichigo walked past Thor and Loki before he stood beside the crystal.

“What! Who! Who dares!” Odin roared, getting to his feet in anger.

“All Father Odin, forgive my suddenness, but you called for me to answer and here I stand. I am the Soul King.” the voice said as Ichigo bowed.

All of them turned to the crystal to see the Soul King’s eyes were glowing.

“The Soul King!” Urahara whispered.

“Your Majesty!” the Royal Guards dropped to a kneel, their heads bowed.

“I see. So you are awake now, are you?” Odin demanded as he walked over.

The Royal Guards tensed, worried about what he would do, but Odin just stood before the crystal and Ichigo.

“I am. Once I heard your words and the words of my people, I had no choice, but to make myself known.” the Soul King stated.

“Ichigo!” Shinji yelled in fear.

Ichigo turned to him and gave him a smile as Frigga helped her sons to their feet.

“You’d need not worry. Kurosaki Ichigo had agreed to let me borrow his body so I may clear the air with my own words and not of those who claim to speak for me.” the Soul King stated.

Ichibei flinched.

“So you have heard everything then?” Odin demanded.

“I have.” he agreed.

“And what is your take on all of this? And do be swift with your answer, my patience wears thin.” Odin demanded.

Ichigo hummed and looked around the room.

“I believe you are correct when you say our world falls under your control.” the Soul King replied.

Everyone gasped, even Loki.

“Y-Your Majesty! You can’t be serious!” Kirinji yelled.

Ichigo turned and frowned.

“All Father, please forgive my guards for their insolence. It seems they have lost their ability to understand why we do not involve ourselves with Soul Society and their politics.” He explained.

Odin nodded while the Royal Guards looked stricken.

“Tell me, what did you think of the former Captain Commander’s actions?” Odin asked. 

Ichigo closed his eyes, as if he was in pain.

“My heart aches. I never wished for children to be involved in Soul Society business. While Kurosaki Ichigo was a candidate for the next Soul King, I never wished for him to be needed. I would have never agreed to such actions, yet it was my own chosen warriors that made this terrible choice.” he stated.

The Royal Guards looked like they had collectively swallowed a lemon.

“B-But!” Oetsu stuttered.

Ichigo’s eyes turned to him.

“Do not try to justify yourself. Why would I have ever wanted a child to be thrown into a war that could have been easily stopped? To watch my people be carelessly murdered and for what? There are no justifications for that. My own inability to stop it will haunt me, but I can and will stop this senseless bloodshed for a second time.” the Soul King stated.

“I too do not wish for a war between our nations.” Odin nodded.

“Then can we come to an agreement? One king to another?” the Soul King asked.

“I would be willing.” Odin agreed.

Thor and Loki shared a startled look, but it was the best solution Loki could have asked for. Frigga had some guards bring in a long table, some chairs, a scroll and some tea. Odin with Loki, Thor and Frigga by his side, Ichigo/Soul King with his Royal Guards and Shunsui with his captains sat down at the table and began to go over what was needed.

Hours passed, going over each and every item. Some captains ended up leaving to make sure Soul Society was still running properly.  The Royal Guards stayed silent through everything, though it was clear they were not pleased by what they heard and saw. With the last item on the list agreed to, each of the men at the table signed the laws.

“With this in place, Soul Society and the Royal Palace are under Asgard’s control, but we will not interfere unless another world-ending war breaks out or I feel as though Soul Society is not holding up their end of the bargain. The reincarnation cycle and the three worlds are still the Soul King’s to keep in line and I will not interfere. With this document signed, we have all come to an agreement and we will all uphold it. Is that acceptable?” Odin stated.

“Yes.” Shunsui nodded.

The Soul King nodded as well. He closed his eyes and Ichigo’s body slumped in his seat. In the crystal, the Soul King’s eyes lost their glow and returned to normal.

“Ichigo!” Loki slipped to Ichigo's side.

Frigga knelt down and checked his pulse before nodding.

“He is simply unconscious. Let us get him to a room for rest.” Frigga said.

Loki picked up the young man and left the throne room without a second thought. He took Ichigo to the room across from his own. He dared not let the young man out of his sight so soon. Behind him, Thor, the Warriors Three and Sif followed.

“Will he be alright?” Hogun asked.

“Being possessed like that is no joke.” Fandral said.

“We should call for a healer.” Sif suggested.

“Loki, what do you think?” Thor asked.

Loki placed Ichigo on the bed and pulled off his blade. He handed that to Thor, who laid it on a nearby dresser with care. Loki’s brain was going a million miles an hour, trying to make sense of everything.

“I do not know if a healer will be able to help him, but I do know that Ichigo needs rest and I will personally make sure that those Royal Idiots and their rock won’t get away with this.” Loki hissed angrily.

“They will not, brother. I promise you that.” Thor agreed.

A knock came to the door and Loki gritted his teeth. He had quite enough for today thank you very much!

“WHAT!” Loki roared.

Thor and the other four blinked, startled at his shout. The door opened and Chad stood there. He seemed unsure of what was going on, but his eyes stayed on Ichigo.

“Oh, it’s you.” Loki huffed.

Chad frowned and looked around before closing the door behind him.

“We were told something happened with the Soul King? And that it involved Ichigo? They wouldn’t let us leave our rooms until it was over. Is Ichigo alright?”  Chad said, crossing his arms.

“Yes, well, all of that happened and your “friend” needs rest.” Loki replied coldly.

Thor sighed and turned to Chad.

“Come, we will explain everything to you three. Loki, I leave Ichigo to you.” Thor and his group left, closing the door softly behind them.

Exhausted didn’t even begin to cover what Loki felt right now. He felt like a towel that had been wrung out too much. He walked over to a loveseat and flopped down in it. His armor faded away, leaving him in the same green pajamas he had created in the warehouse. Looking over at Ichigo’s sleeping face, Loki’s eyes started to drift closed.

—sSs—

Frigga watched as the Soul King’s crystal and the Royal Guards left the Palace with a bit of magical help. The second they disappeared from view, she sighed deeply.

“That was certainly… something.” Odin said.

“Another thing to cross off our bucket list I suppose.” she stated.

They still had plenty to deal with, including the remaining captains and clearing up the situation with Loki and Ichigo, but for now, they were accepting the peace for however long it lasted. To think, just this morning, everything had been normal in their world. It seemed strange that this whole thing had happened in less than 16 hours.

Odin held out his arm and she took it as they walked back inside. For a while, they walked in silence, just enjoying each other’s company.

“While today has been stressful, I could not be prouder of our sons.” Frigga stated.

“I could not agree with you more. Thor and Loki have both shown incredible growth in these last few hours. Loki, who had always been a loner, has shown me that his heart can hold love and kindness. While Thor has shown that he has the ability to think first and act second. I could not be prouder.” Odin agreed.

They let the silence settle over them before Frigga stopped and turned to him. 

“I believe there is still much to do, but I know we will handle it. We must handle it. For all of their sakes.” Frigga stated.

—sSs—

Thor crossed his arms, listening as Sif explained everything to the young humans before them. Staring at them, Thor could not understand how they had been dragged into such a horrible situation and none of the information that he had learned answered that question. They were so young yet had eyes as dark as any warrior he had ever seen.

“So Kurosaki-kun is ok?” Orihime asked, her hands clasped together tightly.

“He will be after some rest.” Sif said gently.

The young girl nodded, but her shoulders were still tense. Thor and Volstagg shared a look.

“We can return you home if you wish.” Sif said, looking between them.

“I would rather wait until Ichigo wakes up.” Chad replied.

“I wish to see him for myself as well.” Ishida said, adjusting his glasses.

Orihime just nodded in agreement.

“What of your families? Should we contact them? Surely, they are concerned.” Hogun asked.

Silence and that answered the question for them. Thor felt his jaw clench before he let out a breath and relaxed his body.

“Then is there anything we can get you? A change of clothes perhaps?” Thor asked.

“That would be… nice.” Chad nodded.

“Then do not worry. We will handle it. Is there anything else?” Sif asked.

The three of them looked at each other and had a whole conversation with their eyes before Ishida spoke.

“A shower? If that is possible.” Ishida stated.

Sif stood up.

“Then follow me.” Sif looked at Thor and he nodded.

Sif led them out of the room and Thor turned to the Warriors Three.

“I need to return to Midgard. I have an idea and I need support from the Avengers. I will be back shortly.” Thor stated.

“We will watch over them. Do what you need to.” Volstagg said.

Thor turned and left. He peeked in on Loki and Ichigo, making sure they were safe and comfortable, before he left for the Bifrost.

“Heimdall, to New York City. I need to speak to the Avengers.” Thor demanded.

Heimdall nodded and Thor was soon standing on the Tower’s roof. Thor took in a deep breath. He could only hope his plan worked.

“Welcome back, Your Highness.” Jarvis stated as Thor entered the Tower.

“Jarvis, my phantom friend, can you let me know if all the Avengers are here?” Thor asked.

“Sir is in his lab with Doctor Banner. The Captain is training in the gym with Ms. Romanov and Mr. Barton. Is this urgent? Should I set off the alarm?” Jarvis asked and how Tony had made a robot sound worried, Thor would never know.

“If you would be so kind. I need the Avengers most urgently.” Thor stated.

“Understood. Please wait in the living room and I will alert them now.” Jarvis said.

Thor stepped into the Tower, but couldn’t find it in himself to sit down. Instead, he paced the floor, trying to get rid of some of his excess energy.

“Welcome back, Point Break.” Tony said as he and Bruce appeared.

“Thor, is everything all right? Jarvis said this was urgent.” Steve asked as he, Natasha and Clint stepped out of the elevator.

“No, it is not alright. Not at all.” Thor said, sounding upset.

It felt like the last few hours had finally hit him and his emotions were all over the place. The sky outside started to look very stormy.

“Whoa there, big guy! Ok. What happened?” Clint asked.

“I have just returned from the absolute most horrible situation I have ever seen in my long years of life! I apologize, my friends, but this story is long and I just need to explain it all, just to get it off my soul.” Thor said between gritted teeth.

“Jarvis, make some popcorn and coffee.” Tony said seriously.

“It is already started, Sir, and I have takeout on the way.” Jarvis replied.

“Thor, tell us everything.” Steve said, sitting down.

And Thor did. He didn’t stop pacing, couldn’t stop or he feared his anger would get the better of him. The sky outside had turned violent as his story went on. The looks on his fellow Avengers faces were of horror, shock and anger. When Thor was finally done, he dropped into a chair and covered his eyes with his hand. Natasha handed him a box of takeout and he took it, devouring it as his hunger finally won out over his rage.

“Wow…” Bruce muttered, his arms crossed tightly across his chest, a faint green tint to his skin.

“Using children for war. I can’t believe this.” Steve shook his head, looking disgusted.

“It’s not as uncommon as you would think.” Natasha said sadly.

Clint placed a hand on her shoulder and squeezed.

“My brain is spinning with everything we just learned, and I don’t even know where to start with my questions.” Tony muttered as he sipped his fourth cup of coffee.

“I guess the main question is this: what do you need of us, Thor?” Steve asked.

“Those children… it is clear they have no one. I cannot sit idly by and pretend I do not see their suffering. I cannot help them, but you can.” Thor explained as he placed the now empty box down.

“You want us to, what, take them under our wing or something?” Clint asked, confused.

“If it is not too much to ask, yes. At the very least, they need mentors. True mentors who will train them properly.” Thor stated.

“And you think we can be mentors?” Tony asked, incredulously.

“Well, you would be better than the ones they currently have.” Thor stated.

The Avengers all muttered in agreement before Steve spoke.

“I would like to meet with them. Even if we can provide them a bit of support, it would be worth it.” Steve stated.

“That is all I can ask, my friends. They need to know at least someone is willing to help them.” Thor said tiredly.

“I don’t know what help we can be, but we’ll give it our all.” Tony said with a nod.

“Then let us return right now.” Thor hopped to his feet.

“Ahhh let me shower and change first.” Steve muttered, quickly leaving the room with Natasha and Clint.

“I should probably grab a suit.” Tony muttered as he walked off.

That left Thor and Bruce, who looked at Thor with concern.

“Are you sure you want me to come? I mean… I’m not sure what help I would be.” Bruce stated.

Thor placed a hand on Bruce’s shoulder and squeezed with a smile.

“Any support you can provide would be perfect, my friend.” Thor said gently.

Bruce swallowed, but nodded. As Thor looked outside, he only hoped this would be enough. An hour later, Thor and the Avengers landed in Asgard. While the Avengers looked around in awe, Thor led the way. When he got back to the room, he knocked on the door. Volstagg opened it and nodded, letting them in. Chad, Orihime and Ishida looked better and they had changed into more Asgardian clothing, but seemed nervous when the Avengers stepped inside the room.

“What is going on?” Ishida demanded, looking defensive and nervous.

“Young ones, these are the Avengers. They are my friends from Midgard.” Thor introduced.

“Oh! I’ve seen you all on TV!” Orihime said with a smile.

“The superheroes from America?” Ishida asked, confused.

“The very same.” Thor nodded proudly.

“Why are they here?” Chad asked.

Steve stepped forward to stand before them.

“My name is Steve Rogers. You can also call me Captain America if that is easier. Thor told us about what you all have been through. He believes we can help you.” Steve stated.

“And how can you do that?” Ishida said, suspiciously.

“By supporting you better than your last mentors.” Steve stated.

“Which, from what we heard, won’t be very hard.” Tony said.

Steve shot him a look, but Tony just shrugged.

“And why would we believe you?” Ishida demanded.

Orihime reached over and placed a hand on his arm. His whole body seemed to relax a bit.

“Ishida-kun, please.” Orihime stated.

Ishida looked at her and then looked away. Chad leaned forward.

“You believe you can help us?” Chad asked.

“We can try if you will give us a chance.” Steve said.

Chad tilted his head to the side. He didn’t seem sure what to make of that. 

“If you can give us a rundown of your powers, we can start there. At the very least, we can give you some pointers.” Tony stated.

Again the three of them shared a look. Eventually, Ishida sighed and got up before activating his bow.

“I’m a Quincy. I can make a bow and arrows out of energy.” Ishida stated.

“AHA! Yes! Bow Bros!” Clint yelled in delight, holding up his own bow.

Ishida blinked, startled, but let his bow disappear. Chad stood up and activated his own power. Steve looked rather impressed.

“I have enhanced strength and can send out energy blasts with my fists.” Chad stated.

“We can help you with that.” Steve said, glancing at Tony, who nodded.

Orihime reached up to her hairpins.

“I can heal wounds and create shields. That is about it.” Orihime stated.

“Unfortunately, my dear, that is not actually the case.” Everyone turned to see Loki standing in the doorway.

“Huh?” everyone said, confused.

“Loki, what do you mean?” Thor asked.

“I believe your power is much more than you give yourself credit for. I have been very curious about your ability from the beginning and hoped to do more research. I believe with a bit of magic, Mother and I could help you fully unlock it.” Loki stated.

“R-Really?” Orihime asked.

“Yes, I will have to speak with her.” Loki nodded.

Orihime beamed, looking delighted.

“Loki, how are you feeling?” Thor asked as he moved closer.

“Better. Ichigo is still asleep and I would like it to stay that way after all he has been through.” Loki said, eying the Avengers.

“Is he alright?” Steve asked as he stood up.

“He could be better. But for now, he is just tired.” Loki stated.

“Thor told us everything. I cannot believe this was allowed to happen.” Steve shook his head.

“Men in power often do not care about who has to suffer when they want to keep their power.” Natasha said coldly.

“True and unfortunate.” Bruce muttered.

“At the very least, we can keep it from happening again.” Clint said.

“How do you plan on doing that?” Ishida demanded.

All of the adults turned to him.

“Ishida-kun.” Orihime muttered.

“No, I want an answer. How do any of you plan on helping us? How can you help us!” Ishida demanded.

“We can do a lot, actually.” Tony stated.

Ishida blinked, startled. Tony opened his phone and started to take down some notes.

“I have been considering starting a training program for young heroes. You would be surprised by how many heroes are out there, doing their own thing with no support whatsoever. If you agree to it, you can help us set that up and be the first heroes we train so we know what we are getting into.” Tony stated.

“Tony and I have been going over some ideas. Admittedly it’s in the early stages, but if you are willing to give us some pointers on what training you all think worked best, then we can start from there. So in a sense, we would be learning from each other.” Steve said.

“Oh.” Ishida muttered.

He looked at Chad and Orihime.

“It’s better than what options we have right now.” Chad stated as Orihime nodded.

“You don’t have to agree to this.” Natasha said, arms crossed.

“Take some time to think it over. Don’t force yourselves or each other into something you don’t want.” Clint stated.

“I will need time to think.” Ishida admitted.

“Take all the time you need.” Steve said.

A knock came to the door before a guard stepped inside.

“Prince Thor, Prince Loki, the young man with the orange hair is awake.” The guard said.

“Excellent! Let us speak to him.” Thor said.

Loki sighed and placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Let me go get him. That way I can answer any questions he has.” Loki slipped out the door and returned to Ichigo’s room, where Ichigo was sitting on the bed, Zangetsu across his lap.

“Loki? What happened? I feel kind of weird.” Ichigo asked, worriedly.

Loki walked over and sat beside him.

“It seems you were used as a vessel for the Soul King to get all of the issues cleared up.” Loki said.

“Oh…” Ichigo swallowed, looking down.

“Are you ok?” Loki asked.

“I feel off. Like something isn’t right. I’m worried something has happened to Zangetsu.” Ichigo said, placing a hand on Zangetsu’s blade.

“You fear the Soul King has done something to you?” Loki asked urgently.

“Maybe? I dunno. I’ve felt odd since I got my powers back. Something isn’t sitting right anymore.” Ichigo shook his head.

“I see. I am not sure why that is, but we will figure it out. Before that, however, Thor has brought the Avengers here to speak with you and your… am I allowed to call them your friends?” Loki asked, eyebrow raised.

“We had a heart to heart thanks to her Majesty, but I have no idea what relationship we will have after this. I want to be friends again, but I don’t know.” Ichigo muttered.

“Then we will worry about that in the future. Come, let’s focus on this.” Loki said.

Ichigo got up and strapped Zangetsu to his back before following Loki to the other room. Ichigo was nervous, that was clear in his energy, but held his head high and his back was straight. Like a true warrior about to go into battle. Loki entered the room and Ichigo followed him. Thor beamed the second he saw Ichigo.

“Ichigo, happy to see you are awake. How are you feeling?” Thor asked.

“I’m fine.” Ichigo mumbled.

Thor’s smile died and he looked to Loki, but Loki just shook his head and so Thor let it go.

“Nice to see you again.” Steve said with a nod.

“Nice to see you all again too.” Ichigo replied.

“Wait… you know them!” Ishida demanded, pointing.

“Uhh yeah? I met them a few days ago?” Ichigo stated, confused.

Ishida seemed floored before he sighed and just rubbed his eyes under his glasses.

“I can’t even be surprised by the shit you do anymore.” Ishida muttered.

“I guess I have to try harder.” Ichigo said with a smirk.

“Shut up.” Ishida muttered.

“Whoa, where’d you get the sword?” Tony asked, leaning over with a raised eyebrow.

“This is Zangetsu.” Ichigo said, pulling it off his back.

“Ahhh! This is the sword you were telling us about?” Volstagg said as the Warriors Three and Sif crowded around him.

“How can you even lift that thing? It’s as big as you!” Bruce asked.

“It’s my zanpakuto. A part of my soul. I mean I guess it would be a bit inconvenient if I couldn’t swing it around?” Ichigo said, sounding uncertain.

“Oh. Ok.” Bruce said, sounding a little uncertain of what that even meant.

“So what is this all about?” Ichigo asked.

“Thor has asked us to come here to speak with you and your friends about possibly taking you under our wings as your mentors.” Steve explained.

Ichigo blinked slowly before looking at Loki.

“Um?” Ichigo muttered.

“If your mentors are only around when they need something from you, then you are not being trained in a way that is conducive to your learning.” Loki stated.

“Can they even help me? Like…?” Ichigo asked, concerned.

“Admittedly, there will be certain abilities they cannot help with, but for the most part, I believe they can help you more than your previous mentors.” Loki said.

“And if they cannot help you, we will be more than happy to!” Volstagg said eagerly.

“One track mind.” Sif sighed.

“Can you blame me! I wish to see how strong he actually is!” Volstagg huffed.

“It would be a good idea for us to get a better understanding of your abilities first hand. Thor, is there a training area we can use?” Steve asked.

“Of course! I would be happy to show you.” Thor nodded.

Ichigo looked at Loki, who nodded and leaned in.

“This could be a good way for you to see what isn’t sitting right.” Loki muttered.

“Right.” Ichigo said, though he didn’t seem very sure.

“Well, lead the way, Thor.” Tony said, waving his hand.

“Oh, I am quite excited for this!” Volstagg said as they left the room.

“Please try to keep your cool, Volstagg.” Fandral sighed.

“Ah, Ichi-berry, there you are.” a voice called.

Ichigo and crew turned to see Shinji coming towards them. Loki hummed and eyed the man with annoyance.

“I thought all of the remaining captains were told to wait in the throne room?” Loki asked.

“They were. But like I said, despite this coat I wear, my loyalty is to Ichigo and I had to make sure you weren’t doing anything unsavory to my kid.” Shinji said, smile firmly in place.

“Your kid?” Tony asked confused, looking between them.

“Plot twist.” Clint whispered to Bruce, who looked just as confused.

“Shinji was my mentor.” Ichigo answered.

“Was? Ouch, Ichi-berry! That hurts!” Shinji whined, placing a hand against his heart.

“You left, Shinji. You don’t get to act like you’re the one hurt.” Ichigo replied coldly.

The energy in the hallway became heavy, making the Avengers tense.

“What is this?” Bruce muttered, feeling Hulk become uneasy.

Shinji looked at Ichigo, his smile gone, before he nodded.

“Ah, you’re right. I did leave. I thought I was doing what was best, but clearly, I was wrong. I hurt you and that’s not fair after all you did for me and the Visoreds. I’m sorry. Ichigo.” Shinji said, his head bowed.

Ichigo sighed and rubbed his eyes.

“I am getting so so sick of hearing that fucking phase, I swear to God. Just get up. I can’t stand that shit.” Ichigo stated.

Shinji straightened up before eying the whole group.

“So let us continue on.” Loki said to Thor.

“Right. Follow me.” Thor muttered.

Shinji frowned, looking like he wanted to say something more as the group moved on. Ichigo sighed deeply.

“Are you coming or what?” Ichigo demanded.

Shinji blinked before flashing to Ichigo's side.

“Of course, I am. Where you go, I will follow.” Shinji stated, his grin was back in full force.

Chapter Text

As they walked, Loki noted the way the Avengers eyed Asgard. Steve was taking in the design and architecture. Bruce seemed fascinated by the various areas they walked by. Tony was busy on his phone, but was also very clearly keeping an eye on the world around him. Natasha and Clint seemed to be keeping everything and everyone in view as they followed from the back. Eventually, they came upon the largest training area Asgard had to offer.

“Whoa, it looks like a coliseum.” Ishida muttered.

“Of course. Various events are held here. It can hold all of Asgard at full capacity.” Thor said with a nod.

“Alright, now that we are here, let’s start simple.” Loki waved his hand and dummies appeared.

“I’ll go first.” Ishida stepped up and summoned his bow.

Clint leaned in, curious to see him in action. Ishida’s power was certainly straight forward and he clearly had at least somewhat professional training, but he wasn’t always the most accurate, especially when he released a large mass of arrows at the same time. When the dummies were destroyed, Ishida kept his bow out and waited.

“I can work with that.” Clint nodded.

Clint walked over and started asking questions, which Ishida answered and they seemed to get along well. Loki hoped Clint could help the young man feel more comfortable with the Avengers. Loki looked at the other two young humans.

“Chad.” Loki called.

Chad activated his power and surged forward. His power was just as straight forward, but definitely needed some refining. Steve patted him on the back when he was done, stating he would be happy to spar with him and get a better understanding of his needs as would Natasha and Bruce. Chad seemed pleased by this, his shoulders relaxing as they spoke. Orihime looked at Loki, who smiled.

“I will speak to Mother. I believe that would be a better training for your power.” Loki stated and she smiled.

“Thank you. I just never knew what to do with them.” Orihime admitted.

“No one could help you?” Natasha asked.

Orihime just shook her head sadly.

“My power is not something Urahara-san had ever seen before. He did what he could, as did Hachi-san, but most seem to be at a loss. They could never explain to me how this power came to be or why I had it either.” Orihime explained and Natasha nodded thoughtfully.

Loki glanced at the last person in the group.

“Ichigo, are you ready?” Loki asked, looking at him.

Ichigo frowned as he pulled Zangetsu off his back.

“I guess.” he replied.

Loki frowned and shot Thor a worried look.

“If you do not wish to…” Loki was cut off when Ichigo scowled.

“I’m fine. It’s probably nothing.” Ichigo said annoyed.

Ichigo stepped up and eyed the dummies before he shot forward. He tore through the dummies with speed and strength. Thor whistled in amazement.

“He is fast!” Sif gasped.

“I cannot believe he’s so fast with a blade that large.” Tony said, sounding baffled.

“Ichi-berry’s speed was always his biggest asset.” Shinji stated.

“I can see why.” Clint muttered.

Ichigo, tired of the dummies continuing to appear, scowled darkly and pulled Zangetsu back.

“Getsuga Tensho!” Ichigo yelled.

Orihime, sensing something was about to go wrong, stepped up, her hair pins glowing.

“Santen Kesshun, I reject!” she yelled as her shield appeared, covering them.

The blast filled the area with smoke and dust. Loki waved his hand as he coughed. As it started to settle down, they found a crater where the dummies had once been, Ichigo standing at the bottom of it.

“Whoa.” Tony muttered.

“Ichigo, are you alright!” Thor asked.

Ichigo was staring at Zangetsu in horror. 

“I…I didn’t mean to use that much power.” Ichigo whispered.

Loki and Shinji shot to his side as Ichigo shuddered. Orihime released her shield as Steve checked to make sure she was ok. Orihime thanked him and promised she was fine.

“Ichigo?” Loki called and Ichigo looked at him.

“Loki, my attack… it wasn’t supposed to be that strong. I barely put any power into it.” Ichigo whispered urgently.

“Easy, kid. You haven’t had your power or zanpakuto in months. You just misjudged it. It’s alright.” Shinji muttered, rubbing his back.

“That was marvelous!” Volstagg cheered.

Loki sighed deeply.

“Shut up, idiot!” Sif hissed at him, punching him in the arm.

“We are going to be in so much trouble.” Hogun muttered, looking at the crater.

“Jesus, this kid really could win wars with strength like that.” Clint stated.

“Shut up, Clint.” Tony said.

“What! I am just saying!” Clint replied.

“Is he alright?” Steve called.

“I’m fine.” Ichigo replied as he returned Zangetsu to his back, but he didn’t seem fine.

“What are you all doing!” a loud yell came.

Thor cursed as he turned to find Frigga walking towards them, her brow furled in anger.

“Mother…” Thor held up his hands.

Frigga looked at the crater, looked at Loki, Ichigo and Shinji standing at the bottom of it and crossed her arms.

“I do not remember agreeing to any destruction of our beloved coliseum, Thor. Loki.” Frigga stated.

“My apologies, Mother. As you can see, I brought the Avengers from Midgard with the idea they would help Ichigo and his young friends with their powers. Unfortunately… well.” Thor waved at the crater helplessly.

“I see. And you did not think to put up some kind of preventative measure? A barrier perhaps?” Frigga asked.

Tony leaned over to Clint.

“Ohh, someone’s in trouble.” Tony muttered.

Steve shot him a look and Tony just smiled.

“I believe that is my fault, Mother. I did not consider it. I will fix it.” Loki said as they climbed out of the crater.

“Yes, well, do so and quickly. You know how upset your Father will be if he finds out his coliseum was destroyed. After how much time he spent building it.” Frigga stated.

“Are we watching gods get scolded right now?” Clint whispered to Natasha.

“Apparently.” Natasha replied.

“How did you even cause such damage!” Frigga demanded.

Everyone pointed at Ichigo, who flushed in embarrassment.

“Sorry, Your Majesty.” Ichigo muttered, rubbing the back of his head.

“Um? Maybe I can help?” Orihime asked.

They all turned to her in confusion.

“How so?” Frigga said.

She walked over to the crater and nodded.

“Soten Kisshun! I reject!” Orihime called.

The area was covered in an orange shield and before their eyes, she repaired the area to the way it was before, dummies and all. Frigga walked over, staring in awe as Orihime finished.

“Mother…?” Loki whispered, his mouth dry.

“You have the ability to reverse time, my dear?” Frigga asked, looking at Orihime.

“Umm, no? I just returned it to the way it was.” Orihime stated.

Loki and Frigga looked at each other, baffled. Tony stepped up and frowned.

“Hold on. Jarvis, can you review that again? What did she do?” Tony said into his watch.

“Yes, Sir. It seems as though Miss Orihime managed to return the area to the exact same way it was before.” Jarvis explained.

“So… what does that mean?” Clint asked.

“Umm well, someone told me once… that I have the ability to… “reject events”?” Orihime stated.

“Reject events… oh my.” Frigga said.

“I’m sorry, can someone explain?” Steve asked.

“Her ability is far beyond what I had thought it was. She is not just reversing time, she is “erasing” the fact that the coliseum was damaged.” Loki said.

“Ok?” Steve seemed lost still.

“Long story short, she made it so that the damage never happened to start with. As if Ichigo’s attack had never even happened.” Tony summarized.

“Oh.” Steve muttered.

“This is far beyond what I had considered. Mother, I had been hoping to speak to you later, but perhaps you could speak with her now?” Loki asked.

“Of course. Come, my dear, let us speak.” Frigga slipped an arm into Orihime’s and they walked off.

“Well, that was something.” Thor stated, unsure of what else to say.

Ichigo sighed and rubbed his eyes again. Loki glanced at him.

“Are you alright?” Loki asked.

“I still feel off. I don’t like it.” Ichigo muttered.

“I see.” Loki frowned.

“You feel off? For how long?” Shinji asked, worriedly.

“Since I got my powers back.” Ichigo admitted.

“Could it be your hollow?” Shinji asked, head tilted to the side.

“I don’t even know.” Ichigo muttered.

“Let’s pull your mask and see what happens. That’s the only way to check unless you want to go talk to him.” Shinji suggested.

“I’d rather not. Mask it is.” Ichigo grumbled.

“Pull his mask?” Loki asked.

“Yes, I would suggest everyone stand back for this. It can be a lot.” Shinji stated.

With a snap, Loki transported them into the stands, leaving Shinji and Ichigo in the center.

“Let’s see what happens next.” Steve said as he sat down.

“I’m putting up a barrier this time.” Loki said.

“Good idea.” Thor said.

“Ohhh.” Volstagg was on the edge of his seat.

“You ready?” Shinji said, standing across from him.

“No, but when am I ever?” Ichigo huffed.

“Ha! That’s the spirit!” Shinji laughed, reaching up to pull down his mask.

Immediately, the area felt heavy. Natasha’s back straightened, as did Steve’s.

“Whoaaa. That’s creepy.” Clint muttered, looking at the goosebumps on his arms.

“It is… unsettling.” Ishida admitted, arms crossed.

“Are you alright?” Steve asked him.

“Quincies and Hollows are natural born enemies. I can’t help, but feel uneasy being so close.” Ishida admitted.

Chad placed a hand on his shoulder and Ishida shot him a shaky smile.

“So Hollows are monsters right? But Shinigami aren’t, so…?” Tony asked.

“The story is complicated, but the long and short is that they are infected.” Loki stated.

“I feel like there was a better word for this.” Bruce grumbled.

Steve winced and patted him on the shoulder sympathetically. 

“But if Urahara was right, Ichigo was born this way.” Ishida said, his brow furled.

“So many questions still. I think we need to speak to that man more.” Thor stated.

“Come on, Ichigo!” Shinji’s voice had changed, making a few of them shiver.

“I’m coming, hold your horses!” Ichigo snapped.

He pulled Zangetsu again before reaching up and pulling his mask down. The heaviness increased to the point where many people started to break out in a sweat.

“Shittt.” Clint muttered.

Shinji and Ichigo’s blades clashed. It was a fury of attacks as the two went at each other. Neither one was holding back even the slightest bit. It was like watching two titans brawl.

“They are ruthless.” Natasha muttered.

“I would have expected them to hold back a little.” Steve said nervously.

“I believe Shinji is attempting to push Ichigo to the brink and see where it gets him. I wouldn’t suggest it myself after what we just saw.” Loki said, arms crossed.

“They are certainly more aggressive than I would have expected, but it’s great for collecting data.” Tony said.

“They are warriors. Holding back is not in their nature.” Sif replied.

“True, but I will step in if it gets to be too much. I do not need Mother coming back and scolding us again like we are children.” Thor said, rubbing his chin.

They watched them go back and forth for a while before Ichigo’s mask shattered and he dropped to one knee, panting heavily. Shinji stopped and released his own mask before walking over.

“That was shorter than usual.” Shinji stated.

“Shut the fuck up!” Ichigo snarled, baring his teeth.

Shinji stopped, startled. He seemed uncertain as to why Ichigo was being so aggressive.

“Easy, Ichi-berry. Like I said before, it’s been a few months, I didn’t expect you to be able to hold it as long as before.” Shinji said gently.

Ichigo got to his feet and sneered.

“I don’t need your pity!” Ichigo spat.

“I’m not pitying you, Ichigo. I’m stating facts.” Shinji replied, sounding frustrated.

“Yeah, well, keep them to yourself.” Ichigo snapped.

Shinji seemed like he was trying to keep his cool. He took a step back before glancing at Loki.

“Maybe we stop for now.” Shinji said.

“I will stop when I decide to stop. Let’s go again.” Ichigo replied.

Shinji shook his head.

“That’s enough, Ichigo. You just got your power back. Take it easy for two seconds, will you?” Shinji stated.

Ichigo shot forward and Shinji just barely blocked his attack.

“STOP TELLING ME WHAT TO DO! STOP TELLING ME WHAT I SHOULD AND SHOULDN’T DO! STOP ACTING LIKE YOU KNOW WHAT IS BEST WHEN YOU DON’T EVEN CARE!” Ichigo roared.

“Ichigo, stop!” Shinji yelled back.

“NO!” Ichigo kicked him away.

Shinji stumbled back, holding his stomach. Steve got to his feet, looking like he was going to intervene, but Natasha grabbed his arm.

“Wait.” She said.

“But!” Steve started, but Natasha just looked at him and shook her head.

“He needs this.” Natasha stated.

Steve frowned before he sat down again, his leg shaking with nervousness. He wasn’t the only one nervous.

“Ichigo, please.” Shinji stated.

“I am so sick and tired of people telling me what to do and how to be! I am so sick of hearing “sorry” with no actual action to fix what you did! I trusted you! I trusted all of you and you didn’t even care! I wasn’t even worth a fucking phone call! You just left without a word like you got what you wanted, so why are you here!” Ichigo yelled, going in for another attack.

Shinji flinched back. He held his own, keeping out of the way of Ichigo’s wild swings. It helped that he had trained Ichigo, but he was clearly thrown off by the sudden attack.

“I’m here because I’m worried and I care!” Shinji stated.

“No, you don’t! If you cared, I wouldn’t have been alone for all these months, living in a warehouse, surviving on ramen noodles!” Ichigo snapped.

“Wait, you were living in the warehouse? Why!” Shinji asked, startled.

“Well, I didn’t exactly have anywhere else to go!” Ichigo snapped as he nearly sliced Shinji’s head off.

Shinji dodged and jumped back a few paces.

“Kisuke told me you were living at home with your father and sisters!” Shinji replied.

“And how would he even know! I haven’t seen him in months either! He refused to talk to me and either moved his shop or made it so I can’t see it anymore! But he was more than happy to take in my sister and turn her into his next weapon! More than happy to go against what I told him NOT to do! What I FOUGHT to save her from!” Ichigo yelled.

“Ichigo, I didn’t know!” Shinji replied, blocking another attack.

“You didn’t CARE!” Ichigo yelled back.

Shinji gritted his teeth, his arms shaking from the strength behind Ichigo’s swing.

“Are you sure we should let this happen?” Steve asked, sounding worried.

“He needs this.” Tony stated.

Loki nodded, though he was nervous. It seemed to him that Ichigo’s emotions were swinging back and forth wildly. He would need to keep an eye on it more or figure out what the cause was. As the fighting continued, Ichigo’s power continued to fluctuate with his emotions. Shinji was on the defensive, trying to keep on his toes. Eventually, he managed to get a hit on Ichigo and sent him stumbling back.

“Ichigo! Please, I am sorry! Can we please talk about this!” Shinji yelled.

Ichigo just held out his sword.

“BANKAI!” Ichigo roared.

“Oh fuck.” Chad said as Ichigo’s power rushed over them.

“What is THAT?” Tony asked as the data on his phone started to fluctuate wildly.

“Zangetsu's second form.” Ishida said nervously.

The all black and suddenly much slimmer Zangetsu looked odd, but then Ichigo disappeared from sight.

“Whoa!” Clint yelled as Shinji was hit and went flying.

Shinji landed on his feet and called his mask again to give him a burst of speed to keep up.

“Ichigo is much faster in this form! Can he even keep up?” Ishida stated.

“This is getting out of hand.” Chad said as he got to his feet.

“He needs this.” Loki said, though he was getting increasingly nervous.

“But does his mentor deserve this?” Bruce asked.

Loki wasn’t sure. Shinji hit the ground and lost his grip on his zanpakuto. He cursed and rolled over, trying to grab it, but Zangetsu was stabbed into the ground right before Shinji’s nose. Shinji froze, staring at the black blade as Ichigo stood over him.

“I trusted you. I trusted all of you and you let me down so completely that I doubt I would even trust you with a fucking piece of blank paper.” Ichigo said coldly.

Shinji clenched his teeth.

“I stopped Aizen for you. I did that and didn’t expect a reward or a thanks, but I expected respect. I expected honesty. I expected a goodbye. You gave me none of that. So to be honest, I don’t want your sorry. I don’t want anything from you. It was a mistake to ask you to come with us. All it did was piss me off, you trying to be buddy buddy with me again like nothing happened. Makes me fucking sick.” Ichigo stated coldly.

The blade was pulled out of the ground.

“Leave. I don’t need or want you by my side. I don’t want you to follow me. Go back to Soul Society to be with the rest of the liars and traitors. Don’t ever come near me again and tell all the other Visoreds the same damn thing. I don’t need you or them.” Ichigo turned away, placing Zangetsu on his shoulder.

Shinji lay there, eyes wide with tears.

“That’s it? You… you don’t want to be a part of my pack anymore?” Shinji asked as he slowly got up.

“Let’s be honest here, Shinji, I never was.” Ichigo replied as he walked away.

Loki appeared before Ichigo, staring at him. Keeping him from going too far. Ichigo stopped, staring at Loki.

“You know. I told you once that you were a horrible liar.” Loki said.

Ichigo just stared at him quietly.

“It’s still true. You are an awful liar.” Loki stated.

Shinji looked at him, swallowing hard.

“You don’t believe any of the words you said. None of them. You are hurt and angry. You are pushing him away because you are hurt and angry. You’re attacking him because he represents all the people who hurt you. But you don’t actually want him to go. You don’t actually want him to leave you alone again, so why don’t we stop this little charade, hm?” Loki asked.

Ichigo’s bankai released, his shikai sword falling to his side. Shinji got to his feet.

“Ichigo, please. Just one more chance, kid. I promise, I won’t fuck it up this time.” Shinji stated.

Ichigo gritted his teeth, but just as quickly, the anger seemed to just disappear. Ichigo sighed and bowed his head.

“I’m tired. Can we talk later?” He whispered and Loki looked at Shinji, who nodded.

“Very well. I believe we are done for now.” Loki said.

Ichigo wrapped Zangetsu back up and placed it on his back. The rest of the group came back down, Ishida and Chad tried to speak to Ichigo, but Loki just shook his head and they quieted down.

“Let us return to the palace. Hopefully Mother will be there with your friend.” Thor stated.

They left for the Palace.

Chapter Text

Meanwhile, at the same time, Frigga walked with Orihime for a while. She had considered taking her to the main gardens, but remembered they were destroyed, so she went for one of the smaller side gardens instead.

“So, tell me, my dear, where did you get such a power?” Frigga asked.

Orihime looked at her before looking down.

“My hairpins… my brother gave them to me.” Orihime said softly.

“Ah, a cursed object then perhaps? Did he tell you where he got them? Perhaps we can ask him?” Frigga asked.

Orihime’s eyes filled with tears.

“No. He… passed away years ago.” She admitted and Frigga frowned as she patted her on the hand.

“I see, I am very sorry.” Frigga said.

Orihime smiled.

“It’s ok. He gave them to me when I was a child, but I was cruel and refused them. He died the same day I got them. I have worn them every day since.” Orihime replied.

“I see. When did you notice your powers for the first time?” Frigga asked.

“When my brother came back as a hollow.” She admitted.

Orihime looked up at the sky.

“Kurosaki-kun and Rukia saved me. They came to help me and I realized there was a whole world beyond what I knew. My memory was removed, but my powers still appeared. Urahara-san said originally it was because I was being influenced by Kurosaki-san’s power. I was later told I was a Fullbringer. But still no one could help me figure out how to get stronger.” Orihime sighed.

She paused, looking crestfallen.

“I just… I just want to know how to use it to the best of my ability so I can be useful.” Orihime muttered.

“And you believe you are not useful now?” Frigga asked, eyebrow raised.

“I can’t help them. My shield isn’t that strong. I can only heal them after they are already injured.” Orihime said sadly.

“And you believe that is not helpful?” Frigga asked.

“What good is it for me to help them after they are already injured?” Orihime asked.

Frigga sighed and patted her hand again.

“My dear, you are looking at it all wrong. I am sure people have taught you that not being on the front lines means you are weak, but they are fools. You do not need to be able to break walls with a single punch or shoot an arrow between your enemy’s eyes. Your focus should be on yourself and your strengths. If you are able to protect the ones you care about with your shield, then protect them. If you are able to “reject” their wounds, then do so. You must not focus on what you can’t do and focus on what you can.” Frigga stated.

Orihime’s eyes were wide.

“You think so?” Orihime asked.

Frigga smiled at her.

“Do you think I am weaker than my husband because I use magic?” Frigga asked.

“No?” Orihime said, confused.

“Many do. Many Asgardians look at me and believe me to be weaker. They have never seen me fight, but they look down upon those of us who use magic over brute strength.” Frigga explained.

“Why?” Orihime asked.

Frigga led them to a table and they sat down.

“They believe that anything they cannot see with their own eyes or hit with their own fists is worthless. While I could try and change their minds, I do not need to. Because I am confident in myself and my strength. So why listen to those who know nothing?” Frigga stated.

“Oh…” Orihime looked down.

“Your friends, do they look down upon you? Have they ever spoken ill of you?” Frigga asked.

“No, never! I mean, sure they made jokes, but never to hurt me!” Orihime shook her head.

“Then who cares about anyone else? If they are who you have chosen to focus your love and attention on, then they are the only ones who matter.” Frigga said.

A wash of power came over them and they turned their heads to where the coliseum was before Orihime spoke.

“I love Kurosaki-kun. I have for a very long time. But…” she paused.

“He does not love you?” Frigga asked sadly.

“Once, he told me he cared about me like a sister and I had hoped to convince him to be more, but after everything that has happened, I don’t even know if I am considered that anymore.” Orihime said sadly.

“He has been hurt. You have seen it in his words and actions. You will need to give him time and grace now that his power has been returned, but that does not mean you can allow yourself to become his punching bag. If he gets out of line, you are allowed to remind him that you are a victim too. Do not allow him to take his anger out on you.” Frigga said.

“Kurosaki-kun would never hurt me!” Orihime insisted.

“Maybe not by choice, but even still. You must advocate for yourself. Remember that.” Frigga stated.

Orihime looked down and nodded. Frigga reached out and cupped her chin, lifting her face.

“You are a young, beautiful woman, Orihime. You must remember that you are worth kindness, love and safety. Heed my words and heed them well. Should that young man step out of line with you, you are well within your right to put him back in his place. Him being hurt does not mean he can hurt you.” Frigga said strongly and Orihime gave her a smile.

“I will. Thank you, Your Majesty.” Orihime whispered.

Frigga smiled and stood up.

“Come. I have a feeling they are finished and will be looking for us shortly.” Frigga took her arm and they entered the Palace.

—sSs—

“Well, we definitely got some useful data.” Tony said as he and the other Avengers settled into a small side room.

Thor and Loki sat across from him as the other Avengers sat around. After returning from the coliseum and meeting back with Frigga and Orihime, Frigga had agreed to take Ichigo, Chad, Orihime and Ishida to the feasting hall for food. Shinji had returned to the throne room after agreeing to speak with Loki at a later date to go over more information about Ichigo’s previous training and anything the Avengers would need to know about dealing with his Hollow side. 

“They have a wide range of powers, but I believe we can help them if they let us.” Steve stated.

“Ichigo certainly has the most power out of them all, but his emotions get the better of him. I believe if we can train him to control them better, he might have an easier time. It’s going to be a lot of hard work, but I think he will see dramatic improvements.” Natasha said.

“Oh! Oh! I get to train Ishida!” Clint said, waving his hand eagerly.

“We’ll leave him to you, Birdbrain.” Tony nodded.

“Yes! Bow Bros!” Clint cheered.

“Bruce, do you think you and I can help Chad?” Steve asked.

“M-Me? You want me to help? Are you sure?” Bruce asked.

“Of course. Chad seems like the type of guy who would get along with Hulk really well.” Steve nodded.

“If you think so.” Bruce said nervously.

“Orihime will be taken under my Mother’s wing. Mother believes she can help her unlock her full potential.” Loki said.

“That’s our best bet. I can’t even begin to think about how to train someone who can reject events. So leave the magic to the magic people.” Tony nodded.

“There will be a lot of obstacles, but I know this will work.” Steve stated.

“I am less convinced, but keeping an eye on people who have powers like these is always the best way to go.” Natasha said.

“So, that’s it right? We are going to help them?” Tony asked.

Looking around the room as the Avengers agreed and Loki felt his anxiety relax. 

“I will only help them if they agree to let us. I am not going to force these young men and woman into another situation like before.” Steve stated.

“Then let’s do this. I always wanted a sidekick.” Tony smirked.

—sSs—

“And that is everything.” Shinji muttered.

Urahara sighed deeply and closed his eyes. Yoruichi was staring at the floor, her arms crossed.

“We were trying to give him a second chance. We had his best interests at heart.” Urahara muttered.

“Kisuke, I’m going to hit you.” Yoruichi stated.

Urahara winced and took a step away from her.

“We all know that’s a crock of shit. We all ran back to Soul Society the second it was given to us because we were selfish and wanted our divisions back. Pretending it was for Ichigo’s own good is bullshit.” Kensei said coldly.

“It hurts my heart to hear how upset he was. I fear I may cry.” Rose said dramatically.

Shinji sighed and reached over to rub Rose on the back.

“What do you think of these Avengers?” Yoruichi asked, looking at Shinji.

“Not quite sure yet. Thor seems too trusting for my tastes, but I can’t sense anything bad from these “superheroes”. They may be a little cocky, but other than that, I believe they might be good people.” Shinji muttered.

“You think it would be a good idea for them to take the kids under their wings?” Kensei asked.

“I don’t know, but I do know we can’t help them anymore. I have trained them to the best of my ability.” Urahara stated.

“I can’t even keep up with Ichi-berry’s growth anymore.” Shinji said softly.

“This could be the best path for them. They would be training in the Human World, which is where they belong. It was selfish of us to get them involved in the other worlds.” Rose stated, his hands clenched together.

“It just feels like we are giving up on them.” Kensei said angrily.

“We left them for months. Forget giving up on them, we GAVE up on them.” Shinji replied coldly.

“Is everything ok over here?” Shunsui asked.

The group looked at him before Urahara spoke.

“We are simply going over the current situation. Will you be returning to Soul Society soon?” Urahara asked.

Shunsui nodded, exhausted.

“I have been speaking with the All Father. I will admit, I have not received such a tongue lashing since I was a child, but it has opened my eyes to many flaws in the system. I will have to do a complete overhaul when we return to Soul Society. I fear many people, including the Noble Families and the Central 46 will not be pleased, but I cannot find it in myself to care.” Shunsui stated.

“We will be right behind you all the way.” Shinji replied.

“I appreciate that. The future is uncertain right now, but I hope it will strengthen Soul Society as a whole.” Shunsui said.

“And where is the All Father now?” Kensei asked.

Shunsui adjusted his jacket.

“He went to speak with the former Captain Commander.”

—sSs—

Odin stood before the cell where the former Captain Commander was contained. 

“It’s a sad day when you see a great man behind bars like a common criminal.” Odin stated.

The former Captain Commander glared at him from where he was sitting. He had been stripped of his blade and his coat. Odin waved his hand and was brought a chair. He sat down and stared at the other man.

“Your Soul King was here with his guards. We have spoken and there has been an agreement put into place.” Odin explained.

The former Commander stared at him, but said nothing.

“Even your Soul King, the idol you swore yourself to, was disappointed in your decision making and has accepted your former student as the new Captain Commander. I have spoken to him at great length, and he has promised to fix the broken system you allowed to stay in place. I believe Soul Society will prosper now that you have been removed.” Odin said.

“Soul Society will perish without me.” Yamamoto replied coldly.

“That will not be allowed to happen. Should the new Commander fail to keep up his end of the bargain, I will step in once more. But I am not here for that. I am here because of your actions.” Odin stated.

“I did nothing wrong.” Yamamoto sneered.

“Perhaps you believe that, but in my eyes, you did and that is all that matters to me. You attacked a child in my kingdom. You almost harmed my sons. So I have taken the time to review my judgment and I have come up with a new punishment for you.” Odin stated.

Yamamoto snarled.

“You can attempt to break me, but I will not be broken! I am an unstoppable force!” he replied hotly.

“Unstoppable is one thing to call you. Arrogant is another. And since you seem so set in your ways, I have changed my mind on your punishment. Instead of wandering Soul Society, powerless and nameless in the world you loved and gave so much of your life for, I have decided you will never step foot in Soul Society again. You will be given your sword back, but you will be sent to the farthest, darkest part of the universe. You will keep your name, but your memory of Soul Society will be stripped. Since you care about it so much, you will be stuck with an eternal longing for a place you do not remember. You will spend the rest of your miserable life unable to settle down or stop searching for that one place you cannot seem to remember. Since you are such an unstoppable force, then your punishment will be the same.” Odin stated.

“You can’t do that!” Yamamoto yelled.

Odin stood up and walked away.

“I already have. Guards, take him away.” Odin called.

Yamamoto’s scream of rage was cut off when the door shut behind Odin.

—sSs—

“So, that is it.” Loki said.

Ichigo, Chad, Ishida and Orihime all looked at him and then looked at the information before them. When Tony had enough time to create packets of training information and had them delivered to Asgard, Loki would never know and truly did not care.

“Now, of course, you do not have to do this. We are not trying to force you into anything and if you change your mind later, you are always free to leave. But we wish to help.” Steve stated.

“And what do you get out of this?” Ishida demanded.

“A chance to help some young heroes and learn what it means to be a mentor.” Bruce stated.

“And let’s be honest here, your last mentors can’t teach you anymore.” Tony said.

“I need help. I need more training, so I will take anything I can get.” Chad said.

“I would like to try.” Orihime said with a timid smile towards Frigga, who smiled back.

Ishida didn’t seem convinced, so Clint clasped his hands together and made his eyes all big and watery.

“Pleaseeee! I’ll be the best Bow Bro! Honest! I’ll teach you everything I know and I know a lot! Just give me a chance!” Clint begged.

Ishida blinked before he sighed.

“Fine.” Ishida muttered as Clint cheered.

Ichigo was staring at the information, seemingly unsure. Thor reached over and pressed a hand to his shoulder. Ichigo looked at him.

“You do not need to make a decision now, you may think on it.” Thor stated.

Ichigo’s jaw clenched, but eventually released and he nodded.

“I would like to try. At the very least, maybe you can do something everyone else couldn’t.” Ichigo said.

Thor smiled at him and Ichigo gave a shaky one back. With that finished, Ichigo moved to speak with Loki. For a moment, they just stood in silence, watching as Chad, Ishida and Orihime spoke to the Avengers about next steps.

“I’ll need to speak with my… family about this.” Ichigo stated.

Loki nodded slowly.

“That would be best.” Loki replied.

Ichigo closed his eyes.

“I’m going to have to face my father. I don’t know…” Ichigo trailed off.

“If you wish, I will accompany you.” Loki said.

Ichigo looked at him.

“I would ask what you have already done, but I’m not sure I care enough to ask. As long as you have left my sisters alone, I don’t really care what you did to him.” Ichigo said.

“Oh believe me, he got what he deserved. I promise you.” Loki stated with a smirk.

Ichigo smiled and shook his head.

“Never let a slight go, huh?” Ichigo asked.

“Never.” Loki agreed.

“Start of something new.” Ichigo muttered.

“Something better.” Loki said.

“And I can trust you to be there, right?” Ichigo asked.

Loki chuckled.

“As I told you before, I will only leave when I decide to leave and for right now, I am enjoying the chaos you have brought to my life. So no, you are not getting rid of me any time soon.” Loki stated.

“Good because I don’t want you to leave anymore.” Ichigo smiled.

To be continued…